This fun and tasty Doritos Taco Salad has a crunchy twist that everyone will love! It’s packed with fresh lettuce, seasoned ground beef, and all your favorite toppings, plus crunchy Doritos.
The best part? You can customize it however you like! I often add some extra cheese and salsa for a little kick. Perfect for a laid-back dinner or a fun gathering with friends! 🌮🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: The taco-flavored Doritos give a unique crunch and flavor. If you want to switch it up, you can use other flavors like nacho cheese or even tortilla chips for a milder taste.
Ground beef: I use ground beef for richness, but ground turkey or chicken works as a leaner option. You can even swap it for a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian take.
Taco seasoning: Store-bought is super convenient, but if you prefer a homemade version, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This way, you control the spices more.
Beans: Black beans are great, but you can easily use kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference. If you want even more protein, white beans are a fantastic substitute!
Corn: Whether using canned or frozen corn, both work well. For a touch of sweetness, fresh corn can be cut right off the cob when in season.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Properly?
Cooking ground beef correctly is key for your salad’s flavor. Here are some steps to make it perfect:
- Use medium heat to get the skillet hot before adding the beef. This helps it brown nicely.
- Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep your salad from getting greasy.
- After adding the taco seasoning, mix well for even coverage and let it simmer so the flavors blend.
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bag of Doritos (taco flavor)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (like romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- Optional: jalapeños for added spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Doritos Taco Salad will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and another 5 minutes for cooking the beef. In total, you can whip it up in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as you go. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Season the Meat:
Now it’s time to add the taco seasoning to the skillet. Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet, adding a little water as needed. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens. After that, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather your shredded lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, drained black beans, corn, and the cooked taco meat. Give everything a gentle stir to mix them together.
4. Add the Crunch:
Next, open your bag of Doritos and crush them slightly—this will add a nice crunch to your salad! Add the crushed Doritos to the big bowl with the other ingredients.
5. Fold in the Extras:
Carefully fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, sliced black olives, and chopped cilantro. These flavors will really elevate your salad!
6. Final Touches:
Drizzle sour cream over the top of your salad. Then, sprinkle the freshly chopped green onions on top. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some jalapeños at this point.
7. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss everything together until well combined. Serve your Doritos Taco Salad right away and enjoy the delicious crunch!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust the seasoning as needed since some alternatives might have less flavor than ground beef.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
To prepare in advance, cook the meat and vegetable mixture first. Store it separately in the fridge and combine it with the Doritos and toppings only when you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the chips!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the Doritos separate to prevent them from getting soggy. To enjoy, just mix the salad fresh and add the crushed Doritos just before eating.
Can I Use Other Types of Chips?
Yes, feel free to substitute Doritos with any other tortilla chips or even nacho-flavored chips for a different taste! Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
