Description

If you love cheesy, crunchy, and incredibly indulgent comfort food, this Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken is about to become your new favorite dish. Imagine creamy mac and cheese, tender bites of chicken, and a bold, crunchy layer of Doritos on top—this casserole takes everything you love about classic mac and cheese and levels it up with an irresistible cheesy, zesty kick.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, game day, or anytime you’re craving something over-the-top delicious, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

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For the Mac and Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

For the Doritos Topping:

2 cups crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until fully melted.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce.
Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

4. Add the Doritos Topping

In a bowl, mix crushed Doritos with melted butter.
Sprinkle evenly over the casserole for an extra-crispy topping.

5. Bake & Serve

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Tips for the Best Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole

Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Make It Spicier – Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
Swap Proteins – Use shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, or even bacon for a twist.
Make It Extra Creamy – Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream for ultra-lush mac and cheese.
Crunchier Topping? – Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.