Dorito Taco Salad is a fun, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, shredded cheese, and crunchy Doritos, this salad is bursting with Tex-Mex flavors and textures. It’s easy to throw together for a weeknight meal or potluck, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 cups Doritos, crushed (nacho cheese flavor works best)
Dressing
- 1 cup Catalina dressing (or ranch dressing for a creamy twist)
- Juice of 1 lime (optional, for extra tang)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and water, and stir until the beef is well coated. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, diced red onion, black beans, and corn. Toss until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add the Beef and Doritos
Add the seasoned ground beef to the salad mixture and toss to combine. Just before serving, add the crushed Doritos to maintain their crunch.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the Catalina dressing (or ranch dressing) over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated. If desired, add a squeeze of lime juice for extra tang.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Dorito Taco Salad immediately, while the Doritos are still crispy. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and tenderness. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Doritos: For added crunch, keep some extra crushed Doritos on the side and sprinkle them on top of each serving.
- Beans: Pinto beans can be used in place of black beans for a different flavor.
Variations
1. Vegetarian Dorito Taco Salad
Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned with taco seasoning for a vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Dorito Taco Salad
Add 1 diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the salad for some heat. You can also use spicy Doritos for an extra kick.
3. Creamy Avocado Twist
Add 1-2 diced avocados to the salad for a creamy texture. You can also substitute Catalina dressing with a creamy avocado dressing.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans to round out the meal.
- Toppings: Top with sliced black olives, pickled jalapeños, or chopped cilantro for added flavor.
- Appetizer: Pair with chips and salsa or guacamole as an appetizer to complement the taco salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and the seasoned beef ahead of time. Keep the ingredients separate and store in the refrigerator. Add the Doritos and dressing just before serving to ensure the chips stay crunchy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Dorito Taco Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the Doritos may lose their crunch, so it’s best to add fresh chips when serving leftovers.
What Other Dressings Can I Use?
While Catalina dressing is classic for this recipe, you can use ranch, French dressing, or even a simple vinaigrette. Each gives a different flavor profile to the salad.
This Dorito Taco Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors with the crunch of Doritos. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for gatherings or a fun family dinner. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. Serve it up, enjoy the flavors, and let everyone dig into this deliciously crunchy salad!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience and favorite variations in the comments below!