This Doritos Taco Salad is a fun and crunchy twist on a classic dish! It combines crispy Doritos, seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing all in one bowl.
Honestly, who could resist that crunch? It’s perfect for parties or a quick dinner. I love tossing everything together and enjoying the delicious mix of flavors—so easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: Nacho Cheese and Cool Ranch are both great, giving a distinct flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try baked tortilla chips or corn chips instead.
Ground Beef/Turkey: While I love ground beef for its rich flavor, ground turkey is a leaner option. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist!
Black Beans: These provide great protein and texture. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap with pinto beans or kidney beans for a different flavor.
Sour Cream: I find sour cream adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative with a similar taste. You could also use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice kick. You can skip cheese altogether if dairy-free is your goal!
How Do You Cook the Ground Meat Perfectly?
Cooking the ground meat properly sets the base for your salad. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat in a skillet to avoid burning the meat.
- Break the meat apart with a spatula for even cooking. Stir it often for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat for a less greasy dish!
- Mix in the taco seasoning thoroughly; this step is key to ensure every bite is flavorful. Follow package instructions for best results.
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 1 bag (10-12 oz) Doritos (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Salsa or additional taco toppings, as desired
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20-25 minutes to prepare this delicious salad. This includes about 10 minutes to cook the meat, and the rest of the time is for assembling the salad and getting everything ready to serve. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, around 5-7 minutes. If there’s any extra fat, drain it off so your salad isn’t greasy!
2. Season the Meat:
Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat. Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet, usually adding a little water, and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. This will give your meat plenty of flavor!
3. Assemble the Salad Base:
Grab a large bowl and start layering your ingredients. Begin with the shredded lettuce as your base. This will make a nice crisp foundation for your salad!
4. Add the Cooked Meat:
Once the meat is fully seasoned, spread it evenly over the lettuce. This will help mix the flavors together as you build your salad.
5. Layer on the Toppings:
Now it’s time to add more delicious things! First, sprinkle the black beans over the meat, then add the halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Each layer adds a different crunch and taste!
6. Finish with Doritos:
For that perfect crunch, crush the Doritos right in the bag and sprinkle them over the salad. This is what makes your taco salad truly special!
7. Add the Creaminess:
Top the salad with dollops of sour cream. You can use a spoon or just squeeze it out of the container—whatever feels right to you!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and add black olives if you like. Serve your tasty taco salad immediately, with salsa or any extra toppings on the side so everyone can add their favorites!
Enjoy your colorful and crunchy Doritos Taco Salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as this will help keep it moist and flavorful. Follow the same steps as you would for beef, and you’ll have a lighter option without compromising taste!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
You can easily make this Doritos Taco Salad vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with either a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh, or by adding more veggies like corn and bell peppers. Just be sure to include a protein source, such as an extra can of black beans, to keep it filling!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, but it’s best to keep the assembly separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunch of the Doritos. You can prepare the meat and chop the veggies a day ahead and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just add the Doritos and sour cream right before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Taco Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep in mind the Doritos will lose their crunch after some time. To enjoy them again, you can keep the salad and chips separate and just add fresh Doritos when you’re ready to eat!
