Dorito Taco Salad is a fun and flavorful twist on a classic taco salad. This dish combines all the traditional taco ingredients with the crunch of Nacho Doritos, making it a perfect meal for taco lovers. It’s a great option for potlucks, casual dinners, or as a quick lunch. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and cheesy Doritos topped with a tangy Catalina dressing makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s get started with the ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pack taco seasoning (store-bought)
- 1 cup fresh lettuce, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced in half
- 1 can pinto beans (store-bought), rinsed and dried
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cup green onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup Nacho Doritos, crushed
- 10 ounces Catalina salad dressing
- Sour cream (optional, for garnishing)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add Water and Seasoning: Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is well-coated with the seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop Vegetables: While the beef is simmering, chop the lettuce, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, tomato, and green onion.
- Rinse and Dry Beans: Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and drain them well.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Layer the Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black olives, pinto beans, tomato, and green onion.
- Add Cheese and Doritos: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the salad. Just before serving, add the crushed Nacho Doritos to maintain their crunch.
- Add Ground Beef: Spoon the seasoned ground beef over the salad mixture.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Catalina salad dressing over the entire salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients and ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish: If desired, top the salad with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Notes
- Customization: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Some great additions include avocado, jalapeños, or corn.
- Dressing Alternative: If you prefer a different dressing, Ranch or a homemade taco dressing can also be used.
- Doritos: For extra flavor, try using different varieties of Doritos like Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to ensure the Doritos stay crunchy.
Q: What can I use instead of Catalina dressing?
A: If you’re not a fan of Catalina dressing, you can use Ranch, Thousand Island, or even a homemade vinaigrette.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of Dorito Taco Salad, follow these modifications:
- Doritos: Replace the Nacho Doritos with crushed pork rinds or a low-carb tortilla chip.
- Beans: Omit the pinto beans to reduce carbs.
- Dressing: Use a low-carb salad dressing or make a homemade keto-friendly dressing.
Dorito Taco Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together all the best flavors of a taco in a crunchy, cheesy salad form. It’s perfect for any occasion and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!
Did you enjoy this Dorito Taco Salad recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and tag us on social media with your delicious creations! For more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips, subscribe to our blog and follow us for the latest updates. Happy cooking
