This Doritos Taco Salad is a fun and crunchy twist on a classic! It features layers of crisp lettuce, seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and, of course, crunchy Doritos that add a tasty kick!
I love making this salad for parties—it’s always a hit! Plus, it’s super easy to toss together. Grab your favorite toppings and let everyone dig in; it’s a blast! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: I love using Nacho Cheese for that classic flavor, but Cool Ranch is a fun twist! If you prefer a healthier option, try baked tortilla chips or even homemade tortilla strips instead.
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can use lean ground turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian alternative, try black beans or lentils instead of meat – they still pack protein!
Taco Seasoning: A store-bought packet is convenient, but you can make your own using cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika for a fresher taste.
Fresh Vegetables: Romaine lettuce adds crunch, but any salad greens like spinach or arugula work too. Get creative with your veggies; bell peppers and avocado bring extra flavor!
Sour Cream: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try avocado dressing or tahini for a different twist.
How Can You Get the Meat to the Perfect Texture?
Making sure your ground beef or turkey is cooked just right is key to a tasty salad. Here are some simple tips:
- Cook over medium heat and break the meat apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t rush it! Let the meat brown as this enhances the flavor.
- After draining excess fat, add taco seasoning mixed with just enough water to form a sauce. This helps the spices coat the meat wonderfully.
Allow the meat to cool a bit before adding it to the salad. This way, it won’t wilt your fresh greens!
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 bag (11-12 oz) Doritos (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: extra toppings such as jalapeños or avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Doritos Taco Salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serve. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the meat and 20 minutes assembling everything. It’s quick and makes for a lovely meal any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, cooking it until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain any extra fat after cooking.
2. Add Taco Flavor:
Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and follow the packet instructions for adding water if it’s needed. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and deliciously fragrant.
3. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large serving bowl, toss together the chopped romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and sliced black olives. This creates a colorful and healthy base for your salad!
4. Mix in the Meat:
Once your meat is cooked, allow it to cool slightly. Then, add it to the bowl with the salad mixture, combining the flavors together.
5. Add the Crunchy Doritos:
Now for the fun part! Crush the Doritos in the bag using your hands or a rolling pin (you want chunks, not dust) and sprinkle them over the salad for a delightful crunch.
6. Top it Off:
Finish by dolloping sour cream on top, and sprinkling green onions and cilantro. If you like, add any extra toppings such as jalapeños or avocado to make it your own.
7. Give it a Toss:
Before you serve, gently toss all the ingredients together to combine them, making sure to keep that crunchy Doritos texture intact!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Doritos Taco Salad is ready to go! Serve it immediately and enjoy this delightful, crunchy, and flavorful dish with friends or family!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Pork Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or pork works great in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions. If using pork, be sure to cook it until it’s well done and the juices run clear for safety.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground meat with extra black beans, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. Make sure to adjust the taco seasoning to suit your taste as well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the crushed Doritos separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to eat, just toss everything together!
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
You can prep most of the ingredients ahead of time! Cook the meat and let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Chop the veggies and assemble everything without the Doritos and dressing, keeping it fresh until you’re ready to serve. Just add the Doritos right before eating!
