This fun Doritos Taco Salad is a crunchy twist on a classic meal! Loaded with seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and topped off with crispy Doritos, it’s full of flavor and texture.
I love how easy it is to whip up and how colorful it looks on the table. Plus, who can resist those tasty chips? Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in! 🌮😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: Nacho Cheese Doritos are the star here, but you could also use Cool Ranch for a different flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, try plain tortilla chips or even crushed tortilla wraps.
Ground Beef: I often use ground turkey for a lighter option. If you’re looking for plant-based alternatives, consider lentils or meat substitutes like textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a similar texture.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder if you want to control the ingredients and spices. I like to add a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
Black Beans: If you’re not a fan of black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans can be great swaps. They offer the same protein and fiber kick. Canned beans are easy, but cooking dried beans from scratch is a tasty option too!
How Do You Get the Ground Meat Just Right?
Cooking ground meat might seem straightforward, but there are a few tips to keep in mind for perfect results.
- Start with a hot skillet—you want that sizzle when the meat hits the pan.
- Break it up into small pieces with a spatula for even cooking. I find using a wooden spoon makes this easier!
- Don’t rush the browning. Let it cook without stirring for a minute or two, then stir for even browning.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat. This keeps your salad from getting greasy.
- Mix in the taco seasoning with water as per the packet, and let it simmer. This step helps to lock in the flavors.
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 bag Doritos (Nacho Cheese flavor)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total: about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking the meat. Once you have everything ready, it’s quick and easy to toss together your delicious salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet, heat over medium heat and add your ground beef (or ground turkey). Cook until the meat is fully browned, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your salad light and healthy.
2. Add Taco Seasoning:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat, adding water as directed on the seasoning packet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely. This will add amazing flavor to your salad!
3. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar cheese, black olives, green onions, and cilantro (if you’re using it). This colorful mixture adds great texture and nutrients to your salad.
4. Mix in the Meat:
Once your meat has cooled a bit, fold it gently into the bowl with the veggies. Be careful not to mash anything up; you want to keep your salad looking fresh and inviting!
5. Add the Doritos:
Just before you’re ready to serve, crush the Doritos and mix them into the salad. This will keep them nice and crunchy, adding that fun texture you love!
6. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and salsa. You can adjust the amounts of each based on your personal taste—make it as creamy or as zesty as you like!
7. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated, then drizzle with the sour cream and salsa mixture. Mix again to combine before serving.
8. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve immediately and consider garnishing with some extra Doritos on top for that added crunch. Enjoy your flavorful Doritos Taco Salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works wonderfully in this recipe. Just cook it the same way you would the ground beef, and season it thoroughly for great flavor.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and increase the amount of black beans or add another protein source like chickpeas. You can also enhance the flavor with extra spices or a taco seasoning that suits your taste!
What Are Some Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad can last up to 2 days, but add the Doritos fresh right before serving to keep them crunchy!
Can I Use Different Types of Chips?
Yes! While Doritos add a unique flavor, you can substitute with any tortilla chips or even nacho-flavored chips. Just keep in mind that the taste may vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
