Description
This Delicious Dorito Taco Salad is a quick and easy meal that combines seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, crunchy Doritos, and your choice of Catalina or ranch dressing. It’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, mixing bold taco flavors with refreshing salad ingredients for a delightful crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
Salad Base
- 6 cups lettuce, shredded
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
Toppings and Dressing
- 1 cup Doritos, crushed (any flavor you like!)
- 1/2 cup Catalina dressing or ranch dressing
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Make sure to break it apart for even cooking. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the salad from becoming too oily.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning packet along with 1/4 cup of water. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer lightly for 3 to 4 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, add the shredded lettuce as the foundation. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, and black beans (if using) evenly over the lettuce.
- Add the Seasoned Beef: Spoon the warm taco-seasoned ground beef over the layered salad ingredients to spread the savory protein throughout the salad.
- Top with Doritos: Generously sprinkle the crushed Doritos atop the salad for a crunchy texture and added taco flavor that complements the beef.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle your choice of Catalina or ranch dressing over the salad and gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated without crushing the Doritos too much.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad right away to maintain the crispiness of the Doritos and enjoy a fresh, flavorful taco-inspired meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed plant-based crumbles or seasoned beans.
- Use reduced-fat cheese and dressing to lower calories if desired.
- Adding avocado or jalapeños can enhance flavor and texture.
- To keep the Doritos extra crunchy, add them just before serving.
- Black beans are optional but add extra protein and fiber.
