This Easy Doritos Taco Salad mixes crunchy Doritos with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s a fun and colorful dish perfect for parties or a casual dinner!
I love how quick this salad is to whip up, and the flavors are a hit with everyone! Perfect for those days when you want something tasty without all the fuss. Plus, who can say no to Doritos? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of the show! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes to keep it hearty.
Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, make your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. It adds great flavor without the extra preservatives!
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds crunch, but you can swap it for iceberg lettuce or baby spinach for a different texture. You might even mix it up with some kale for added nutrients.
Doritos: Nacho Cheese is classic, but feel free to use Cool Ranch for a twist. If you’re avoiding processed snacks, tortilla chips or even homemade chips are good options too!
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef sounds simple, but getting it just right can make all the difference. Here’s how:
- Heat the skillet on medium before adding the beef. This helps it brown nicely.
- Break the meat into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks, which helps it cook evenly.
- Drain excess fat after browning to prevent a greasy salad.
These tips will ensure your beef is juicy and flavorful, making your taco salad a hit!
Easy Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 cups crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos chips
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream, for topping
- Optional: salsa for serving
Time Estimate:
This Easy Doritos Taco Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You will spend around 10 minutes cooking the beef and about 10 minutes assembling the salad. Quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a last-minute get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until fully browned, breaking it up into small bits with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This usually takes around 6-7 minutes.
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Then, sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the beef and pour in the 1/2 cup of water. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. After simmering, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, drained corn, and sliced black olives. Give everything a good toss to mix these fresh ingredients well.
4. Add the Beef and Cheese:
Add the cooked taco-seasoned ground beef to the salad bowl and mix gently to combine. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese and crushed Doritos on top of the salad for that satisfying crunch!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish the salad by garnishing with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. Add a dollop of sour cream on top, and if you’re feeling fancy, serve it with salsa on the side. That’s it!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Doritos Taco Salad right away to keep those Doritos nice and crunchy!
FAQ for Easy Doritos Taco Salad
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions for optimal flavor!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with tempeh, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more beans or lentils for protein!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the Doritos separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the beef and chop the veggies in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. This keeps the Doritos crispy and the ingredients fresh!
