Description
Doritos Taco Salad is a bold and satisfying dish that transforms a traditional taco salad into something irresistibly fun. Seasoned ground beef is paired with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, hearty beans, sweet corn, and sharp cheddar cheese, then finished with crunchy Nacho Cheese Doritos and a zesty dressing. This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings where flavor and crunch matter most.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Families looking for a quick and filling dinner
- Anyone who enjoys Tex-Mex flavors
- Potluck hosts needing a crowd-friendly salad
- Beginner cooks who want a simple, no-stress meal
- Doritos lovers craving something creative and savory
Why It’s Great
- Fast & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
- Big Flavor: Savory beef, fresh veggies, and crunchy chips in every bite
- Versatile: Easy to customize with different proteins or dressings
- Perfect for Groups: Scales well for parties and gatherings
- No Fancy Tools Needed: Simple ingredients and basic kitchen equipment
Ingredients
For the Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Taco seasoning | 1 packet |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Romaine lettuce, chopped | 1 head |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 2 cups |
| Shredded Cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Red onion, diced | 1/2 cup |
| Black beans, drained and rinsed | 1 (15-oz) can |
| Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Doritos, crushed (nacho cheese flavor) | 2 cups |
For the Dressing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Catalina dressing (or ranch) | 1 cup |
| Fresh lime juice (optional) | Juice of 1 lime |
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Large salad bowl
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 2–3 minutes until the beef is well coated and flavorful. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, black beans, and corn. Toss gently until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add Beef and Doritos
Add the seasoned ground beef to the salad mixture and toss to combine. Just before serving, fold in the crushed Doritos to preserve their crunch.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Add fresh lime juice if desired for extra brightness. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers without Doritos and dressing in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Doritos: Keep chips separate and add just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Not Freezer-Friendly: This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prep all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work well.
What dressing works best besides Catalina?
Ranch, French, or a creamy taco dressing are great alternatives.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add jalapeños, hot Doritos, or spicy taco seasoning.
Conclusion
Doritos Taco Salad is the ultimate combination of fresh, hearty, and crunchy. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a reliable recipe for busy evenings, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a fun twist on a classic salad. Easy to customize and impossible to resist, this dish deserves a regular spot on your meal rotation.
