This Doritos Taco Salad is a crunchy and colorful mix of flavors that everyone loves! With layers of cheesy goodness, fresh veggies, and, of course, crispy Doritos, it’s always a hit.
I can’t help but smile when I see everyone enjoying it at potlucks. It’s super easy to make and perfect for sharing—just toss it all together and dig in! 🌮🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can use either, but turkey makes it lighter. If you’re vegetarian, try crumbled tofu or a meat substitute for great texture!
Taco Seasoning: A packet is easy, but homemade is even better! Use chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a personal touch.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or chickpeas can be good substitutes for a different twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic for this dish. For a healthier option, try reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
Doritos: Use any flavor, but Cool Ranch adds a fun twist! If you prefer a healthier crunch, grab tortilla chips or make your own baked chips.
How Do I Cook the Ground Meat to Make It Delicious?
Cooking ground beef or turkey right sets the stage for a flavorful salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground meat. Break it up with a spatula while cooking.
- Let it brown evenly without stirring too much. This helps create a nice crust for extra flavor.
- Once it’s brown, drain any excess fat. This keeps the salad from getting greasy.
- Add the taco seasoning and follow package instructions, usually adding water and simmering until thickened.
This method enhances flavors and ensures the meat complements the salad beautifully!
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 head of lettuce, chopped (romaine or iceberg)
- 1 cup Doritos (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the meat and mixing the salad, plus a bit of time for cooling and preparing to serve. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s any grease, drain it off to keep your salad light and fresh.
2. Add Taco Flavor:
Once your meat is browned, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Follow the package instructions, which usually involves adding some water. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens up nicely. Then, set it aside to cool a little.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a big bowl, combine your chopped lettuce, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, and shredded cheese. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together evenly.
4. Combine the Meat with the Salad:
When the meat has cooled slightly, add it to your salad mixture. Stir everything together gently, so you don’t mash the ingredients.
5. Add the Crunchy Doritos:
Now it’s time for the Doritos! Fold them into the salad carefully, making sure to keep them crunchy. They add a great texture and flavor!
6. Finish with Toppings:
Top off your salad with dollops of sour cream, sliced black olives, green onions, and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and taste. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Doritos Taco Salad immediately, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy this fresh, crunchy dish—perfect for parties or a simple weeknight dinner!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be sure to cook them similarly until fully browned and seasoned!
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a can of black beans or chickpeas for added protein. Alternatively, use crumbled tofu or your favorite veggie crumble to keep the meat-like texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the Doritos separate to maintain their crunch! Just add them when you’re ready to serve again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Bell peppers, corn, or even avocado make great additions. Just make sure to chop everything into bite-sized pieces for easy serving!
