Crispy Doritos-Crusted Beef Cones

These crispy Doritos-crusted beef cones are a fun, handheld dinner that delivers big on crunch and flavor. Tortilla cones are coated in crushed nacho cheese chips, baked until rigid, then stuffed with seasoned beef and plenty of melty cheese.

The result is a shatteringly crisp exterior with a warm, savory filling that pulls apart with an irresistible cheese stretch. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or any night you want something playful and satisfying.

Turn taco night into a crispy, crunchy adventure with these beef cones. Flour tortillas are shaped into cones, brushed with ketchup, and rolled in crushed nacho cheese corn chips for a golden, salty crust.

After a quick bake to set the shell, they’re filled with seasoned ground beef and shredded cheese, then baked again until the cheese is molten and bubbly.

The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, cheesy filling is pure magic. Serve them upright for a fun presentation that’s sure to get everyone to the table.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The method of pre-baking the cones before filling them is key. It sets the tortilla into a rigid, sturdy shell that holds its shape when stuffed, preventing sogginess. The ketchup acts as a glue for the chip crumbs, while also adding a subtle tang that complements the richness of the beef and cheese.

Crushed nacho cheese corn chips bring a double hit of flavor and texture. They provide a crunchy, salty coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft, melted cheese inside. Baking the filled cones allows the cheese to melt slowly and evenly, creating that perfect pull when you bite in.

Notes and substitutions

Use large flour tortillas for easy folding and a generous cone size. If you have smaller tortillas, you can still make cones, but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. The ketchup is not just for flavor—it also helps the chip crumbs adhere to the tortilla, so don't skip it.

For the filling, any good melting cheese works, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. Ground beef is classic, but you can use ground turkey or chicken; just ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

Crushed nacho cheese chips are widely available; plain tortilla chips also work if you prefer a milder flavor.

• flour tortillas: corn tortillas (smaller, may need extra toothpicks; bake a few minutes less)
• ketchup: tomato paste mixed with a little water, or barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor
• nacho cheese corn chips: any crunchy corn chips, such as plain tortilla chips, or use crushed cheese crackers for a different crunch
• ground beef: ground turkey or chicken (cook to 165°F)

Equipment

• toothpicks
• baking sheet
• pastry brush
• large bowl
• oven