This fun Doritos Taco Salad is a crunchy twist on a classic! With layers of taco meat, fresh veggies, and of course, those tasty Doritos, it’s a hit at any gathering.
It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a party snack. Plus, who can resist the delicious crunch of Doritos mixed in? I always add extra cheese because, why not? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: The star of this salad is, of course, Doritos! I love using the taco flavor for extra zing, but nacho cheese works just as well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use tortilla chips or even homemade spiced corn chips.
Ground Beef: Ground beef provides a hearty base. For a leaner option, turkey or chicken also works well. You can even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version that retains great flavor.
Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning is quick and easy, but homemade seasoning is a fun option! Use chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder for a personalized blend. Just adjust the amounts to taste.
Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber. Feel free to replace them with pinto beans or even chickpeas if you like! They’ll still give that nice texture and fill the salad nicely.
Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. However, feel free to use a Mexican blend or pepper jack for some heat. Dairy-free cheese is also available if needed.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Ground Beef for Tacos?
Cooking the ground beef well is key to making this salad tasty. Here’s a simple guide:
- Start with a skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the beef.
- Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.
- Add the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend.
- Let it cool slightly before adding to your salad; it helps maintain the crunch of the Doritos!
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 bag Doritos (taco or nacho cheese flavor)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 head of lettuce (romaine or iceberg), chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: additional toppings such as salsa or avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Doritos Taco Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble. You’ll need a bit of time for cooking the ground beef, but everything else comes together quickly. Enjoy this fun and vibrant dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the salad light and tasty!
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle the taco seasoning over it. Add 1/2 cup of water and stir well. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, until it thickens and the flavors come together. After that, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Grab a large salad bowl and start layering your ingredients! Begin with the chopped lettuce as the base, making sure to cover the bottom of the bowl. Next, layer the cooked taco meat evenly over the lettuce.
4. Add the Toppings:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Sprinkle the rinsed black beans and sweet corn over the meat layer. Then, add halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced black olives. Finally, break up the Doritos and sprinkle them on top for that great crunch!
5. Finish with Dressing:
Drizzle sour cream over the entire salad, and then add sliced green onions and fresh chopped cilantro for some extra flavor. Mix gently to combine the ingredients neatly, but be careful not to crush the Doritos!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad right away so it’s fresh and crunchy. If you like, add optional toppings such as salsa or avocado on the side. Enjoy your colorful and delightful Doritos Taco Salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but be aware that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might consider adding a little more water or even a splash of broth when mixing in the taco seasoning.
What Can I Use Instead of Doritos?
If you want a healthier option or to avoid gluten, you can use baked tortilla chips or even crushed corn chips. For a low-carb alternative, try using crushed nuts or seeds to add that crunch without the carbs!
How Should I Store Leftover Taco Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the Doritos and the other ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat so the chips stay crunchy!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Cook the meat and chop the vegetables, then store them separately in the fridge. Combine everything with the Doritos just before serving for the best texture!
