Doritos Taco Salad is a fun and crunchy dish that mixes bold flavors with crispy chips. With tasty ingredients like seasoned meat, cheese, and fresh veggies, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad. Just toss everything together and let that cheesy, zesty goodness shine. Perfect for parties or a casual dinner—yummy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: Nacho Cheese flavor is classic for this salad, but feel free to try Cool Ranch or any spicy variety if you like some heat. For a healthier option, you can substitute with baked tortilla chips or even homemade tortilla strips.
Ground Beef: I usually opt for ground turkey as a leaner choice. Ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives work well for a vegetarian or lighter dish. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have a packet handy, mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. It’s super easy! You’ll control the spice level this way, too.
Black Beans: Canned beans are convenient but feel free to use cooked dried beans if you have them. You can also swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.
Sour Cream: If you’re after a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It adds creaminess and a tangy kick, plus it’s higher in protein!
How Do I Make the Perfect Salad Base?
Getting the salad base right is crucial for a fresh and balanced Doritos Taco Salad. Start by rinsing and draining the black beans to remove excess sodium. If you’re using frozen corn, just let it thaw before adding it. For the lettuce, I find that romaine offers great crunch, but you can mix in other greens like spinach for added nutrients.
- Combine shredded lettuce, black beans, corn, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese, mixing everything gently to keep it light.
By layering these fresh ingredients, you’ll set a solid foundation for the flavorful taco meat and delicious toppings. This keeps everything from getting soggy and deliciously crunchy!
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 bag (10-12 oz) Doritos (Nacho Cheese flavor works well)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salsa (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the meat and about 10 minutes putting together the salad. It’s fast, fresh, and ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or turkey), breaking it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned all over. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off. Then, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and add a small amount of water according to the packet instructions. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens a bit.
2. Preparing the Salad Base:
While your meat is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded romaine lettuce, drained black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, and your choice of shredded cheese. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
3. Combining Everything:
Once your taco meat is done and has cooled for a few minutes, add it to the salad mixture. For an extra crunch, crush the Doritos slightly and mix them in with the other ingredients. This adds a lovely crunch to each bite!
4. Adding Toppings:
Drizzle the sour cream on top of your salad, and then sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. If you like, throw in some sliced black olives for added flavor. It’s all about personal taste!
5. Serving:
Serve your Doritos Taco Salad right away for the best crunch! If you want, put some salsa on the side for extra zing. Enjoy the deliciousness of your fresh salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It provides a leaner option while still delivering great flavor. Just ensure that you cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, just as you would with beef.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the Doritos separate until you’re ready to eat again, so they stay crunchy!
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own taco seasoning using common spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Combine 1 tablespoon of each of these spices for a flavorful alternative. Adjust to taste depending on your spice preference!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and replace it with additional beans or a meat substitute like quinoa or tofu. You can also add more vegetables for added texture and flavor, such as diced bell peppers or avocado!
