This fun Doritos Taco Salad is a tasty mix of crunchy Doritos, seasoned meat, cheese, and fresh veggies. It’s like a party in a bowl that everyone will love!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a little crunch with their salad? I like to add extra toppings, like salsa or guacamole, for a little extra kick. Perfect for game day or a family dinner! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a plant-based choice, crumble firm tofu or use lentils as a substitute. Both will give great texture!
Taco Seasoning Mix: For a homemade option, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. It’s fun to tweak these spices to your liking too!
Romaine Lettuce: If you prefer a different green, try iceberg lettuce for crunch, or even spinach for a more nutrient-packed salad. They all work wonderfully!
Doritos: While Nacho Cheese is classic, you can use any flavor you like. Try BBQ or Spicy Sweet Chili for a twist. If looking for a healthier option, substitute with baked tortilla chips or pita chips.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier swap for sour cream. It’s creamier and adds a nice tang without the extra fat. You may also consider dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
How Can I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef sounds simple, but there are still some key tips you should know. You want it nicely browned for the best flavor. Here’s how:
- Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. It’s important to not overcrowd the pan; you want space for browning.
- Add the beef and break it apart with a spatula. Let it cook for a few minutes without stirring, then flip to allow the other side to brown too.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat. If you prefer a leaner meal, opt for ground beef with 90% or higher lean content.
- Mix in the taco seasoning and follow the package instructions. Letting it simmer adds even more flavor!
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 package taco seasoning mix
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup Doritos, crushed (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For Serving:
- Salsa (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Doritos Taco Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the beef and mixing everything, with an additional 10 minutes to chop and combine all the fresh ingredients. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook it until it’s nice and browned. If there’s any excess fat, drain it away. Next, stir in the taco seasoning mix according to the package instructions, which usually involves adding some water and letting it simmer for a few minutes. This will make the beef flavorful!
2. Prep the Salad Ingredients:
While the meat is cooking, grab a large bowl and combine your chopped romaine lettuce, drained black beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese. This colorful mix is the base of your salad, making it both nutritious and tasty!
3. Combine the Beef and Salad:
Once the seasoned meat is ready, add it to the large bowl with the salad ingredients. Toss everything together gently to ensure that the flavors mix well. You want every bite to be delicious!
4. Add the Crunch:
Just before you’re ready to serve, fold in the crushed Doritos. This will give your salad an exciting crunch that everyone will love!
5. Add Toppings:
Top your salad with dollops of sour cream, and sprinkle on sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and black olives if you like them. These toppings add flavor and a pop of color to your dish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Doritos Taco Salad immediately, and don’t forget to have some salsa on the side for a tasty dip. Enjoy this fun and satisfying meal with family and friends!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles are great alternatives. Just make sure to season them well, as they might need a bit more flavor compared to beef.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground meat with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute. You can also add more veggies like corn or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare most components ahead! Make the beef and chop the veggies a day in advance. Assemble the salad without the Doritos and dressing until just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy!
How to Store Leftovers of Doritos Taco Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the Doritos separate to maintain their crunch. Reheat any meat mixture if you want before combining with the salad again.
