This colorful Doritos Taco Salad is perfect for a quick meal. With crunchy Doritos, tasty ground beef, and fresh veggies, it’s like a fiesta in a bowl!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything in a big bowl, and dinner is ready! Perfect for busy nights when you want something fun and delicious. 🌮💖
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the base of this dish, giving it a hearty flavor. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter, healthier option.
Taco Seasoning: A taco seasoning mix makes it easy. If you don’t have it, a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder works well for a flavorful kick.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds crunch, but any salad greens like iceberg or mixed greens can also work. For a fun twist, try a spinach base!
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are bright and sweet. You can substitute diced regular tomatoes or use bell peppers for a different crunch.
Black Beans and Corn: Both add nutrition and texture. If you’re watching carbs, skip the corn or use another bean like pinto or kidney beans.
Doritos: Nacho Cheese Doritos provide crunch and flavor. Use any flavored tortilla chips if you prefer—a hint of spice can elevate the salad!
How Can I Make the Beef Perfectly Seasoned?
The ground beef is key for this recipe. Start by cooking it in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Breaking it apart ensures even cooking and seasoning absorption. After draining the fat, return it to the pan, add your taco seasoning with water, and simmer. This helps the flavors meld perfectly into the beef without making it too salty or dry!
- Cook until fully browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- Mix in seasoning and let it simmer to develop flavor.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it makes mixing easier with the salad!
Easy Doritos Taco Salad Recipe for Quick Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup canned corn, drained
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream, for topping
- Optional: salsa or taco sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Doritos Taco Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serve. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the beef and mixing the ingredients, then just a few more assembling your tasty salad. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep your salad fresh and not greasy!
2. Season the Beef:
Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring well to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors blend together. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a big salad bowl, toss together the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, sliced olives, and chopped green onions. This mix creates a colorful and nutritious base for your salad!
4. Add the Beef:
Now, add the cooked taco-seasoned beef on top of the veggie mixture. It’s okay if there are still little bits of liquid; they will add flavor!
5. Top it Off:
Sprinkle shredded cheese and crushed Doritos evenly over the salad for that extra crunch and flavor. You’re going to love the texture it adds!
6. Garnish:
Finish your salad with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. It brightens the dish and adds a nice herbal flavor.
7. Add Creaminess:
Top everything with a generous dollop of sour cream. This creamy element ties all the flavors together!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle some salsa or taco sauce over your salad if desired. Serve immediately to keep those Doritos crunchy, and enjoy your quick and flavorful Doritos Taco Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. Just cook it in the same way as the beef, and make sure to season well with the taco seasoning to enhance the flavor.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can create your own! Mix together 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust according to your taste for a customized seasoning blend!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the Doritos separate to maintain their crunch. When ready to eat, simply reassemble your salad and enjoy!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or skip it altogether and add more beans and veggies for a hearty vegetarian version. You could also add avocado for creaminess without the meat!
