Cool Ranch Turkey Taco Casserole

This cool ranch turkey taco casserole is packed with bold flavor from seasoned turkey, Doritos, cheese and creamy ranch. It’s easy, cheesy and full of crunch.

If you’re a fan of this dish, you might also enjoy green chile egg casserole, jalapeno popper tacos or perhaps these pizza zucchini boats.

Why You’ll Love It

Easy to make: Just layer the ingredients and bake for a hands-off main dish.
Family favorite: Kids and adults both love the cool ranch crunch and cheesy layers.
Great for leftovers: Tastes just as good reheated the next day.
Customizable: Easily change up the spice level or toppings to suit your preferences.

Cool Ranch Turkey Taco Casserole Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Ground turkey: A lean and flavorful base for the casserole.
Red onion: Adds sharpness and texture.
Jalapenos: Provide a mild to medium kick of heat.
Taco seasoning: Infuses the turkey with classic Tex-Mex flavor.
Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang without much extra fat.
Ranch seasoning: Brings that cool ranch flavor into the creamy turkey mixture.
Doritos: Serve as the crunchy base and topping, full of bold ranch flavor.
Frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture to each bite.
Tomato and green chilies: Offer acidity and mild spice to balance the richness.
Taco cheese: Melts beautifully and gives a savory, cheesy finish.
Cilantro: An optional garnish that adds color and freshness.

How to Make Cool Ranch Taco Casserole

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Cook the turkey mixture: Brown the turkey with half of the onion and jalapenos, then stir in taco seasoning. Add Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning and mix well.
Crush the Doritos: Break one bag into larger chunks and the second into fine crumbs for topping.
Layer the casserole: In a greased dish, layer Doritos, turkey, corn, tomato, and cheese. Repeat once more.
Top and bake: Finish with crushed Doritos and cheese, then bake until hot and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Add fresh red onion, jalapenos and cilantro before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

Swap the meat: Use ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken if preferred.
Use plain corn: Regular frozen corn works if fiesta corn isn’t available.
Try another chip flavor: Nacho cheese or spicy Doritos can give it a new twist.
Add beans: Black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans add heartiness and fiber.
Less spicy: You can omit the jalapeños and canned chilies if you want a milder result.
More toppings: Add bell peppers, sweet onion, sliced mushrooms, or chopped tomatoes.
A different cheese: Try cheddar cheese or pepper jack in place of taco cheese. Fiesta blend cheese is also good. That’s a mixture of Monterey jack, cheddar, quesadilla cheese, and asadero.

Serving Suggestions

With a salad: Pair this tasty casserole with a Mexican kale elote salad or watermelon jalapeno salad.
With sides: Mexican-style shrimp ceviche with avocado is delicious, or you might prefer homemade onion rings or some homemade mango salsa.

How to Store Turkey Taco Casserole

Store: Leftovers should be covered and kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This casserole dish will be fine for up to 3 days.
Freeze: I wouldn’t freeze this, otherwise the tortillas will just thaw out soggy.
Reheat: The exact time will depend how much you are reheating at once as well as your oven. But I would say 20 to 30 minutes in the oven at 350°F is a good guideline. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.