Easy Doritos Taco Salad

Doritos Taco Salad is a lively and flavorful dish that blends the crunch of Doritos with the freshness of a classic taco salad.

Born from the creative minds of home cooks, this recipe has become a favorite due to its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal.

As we explore this one-of-a-kind salad, we’ll uncover its key ingredients, its adaptability for various tastes, and the fun it brings to gatherings.

Easy Doritos Taco Salad recipe

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Tongs or salad servers

Key Ingredients

Making a Doritos Taco Salad is easy and involves a few essential components that come together for a quick, satisfying meal:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 bag (9.75 oz) Nacho Cheese Doritos, lightly crushed
• 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup Catalina dressing (or ranch for a different twist)

How to Make Doritos Taco Salad

Step 1: Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease and stir in the taco seasoning according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies: While the beef is cooking, chop the lettuce, dice the tomatoes and onions, and slice the olives.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, layer the lettuce first, followed by the cooked taco meat.

Step 4: Add Toppings: Sprinkle the tomatoes, onions, black olives, and shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Crunch It Up: Just before serving, mix in the lightly crushed Doritos for that signature crunch.

Step 6: Dress and Toss: Drizzle the Catalina dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to ensure even coating.

Step 7: Serve Immediately: Enjoy while the Doritos are still crisp!

What to Serve with This Recipe

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): The creamy, cheesy corn pairs well with the bold flavors of the salad.
• Guacamole & Chips: A fresh avocado dip makes a great side or topping.
• Black Bean Soup: A warm, hearty complement to balance the crisp salad.
• Margaritas or Agua Fresca: Refreshing drinks to complete the meal.

Customizing Your Doritos Taco Salad

The charm of this salad lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Protein Options: Try swapping in different types of meat or opt for a vegetarian alternative, as suggested by Epicurious. For a leaner option, ground chicken or turkey works perfectly.
• Dressing Ideas: While Catalina is the classic choice, you can switch things up by using ranch or adding a kick with spicy salsa.
• Serious Eats has more dressing inspiration to explore. Extras: Incorporate beans, corn, or even avocado slices for added texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

• Double the Crunch: Keep some Doritos aside and add them on top right before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Make It a Meal Prep Salad: Store the components separately and combine just before eating for a fresh taste.
• Warm & Cold Contrast: Serve the beef slightly warm over the crisp lettuce for an extra flavor boost.
• Boost the Umami: A dash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef adds a deeper savory flavor.

Final Thoughts

Doritos Taco Salad is a fun and flavorful twist on a classic taco night. It’s incredibly easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The balance of textures—crisp lettuce, crunchy chips, creamy cheese, and juicy tomatoes—keeps every bite exciting. Whether you’re making it for a potluck or a quick family meal, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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