This Doritos Taco Salad brings crunch and flavor to your table! With crispy Doritos, seasoned meat, fresh veggies, and tasty cheese, it’s a fun twist on a classic salad!
You can serve this salad at parties or enjoy it on a cozy night while watching TV. Honestly, who can resist those crunchy chips? Just brace yourself for addictive snacking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: The main crunch in this salad! Choose your favorite flavor for added personality. If you’re avoiding processed snacks, consider using crushed tortilla chips or even homemade baked chips.
Ground Beef or Turkey: I prefer ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a lighter choice. You could also use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu for a meatless option.
Taco Seasoning: Pre-packaged taco seasoning is quick and easy, but if you want more control, make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. A little extra spice never hurts!
Black Beans: Packed with protein and fiber, they are a must! You can swap them for pinto beans or chickpeas for a different taste. Canned versions are great, but cooking your own can enhance flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but I love a Mexican blend for added flavor variety. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a little feta or a vegan cheese alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Meat is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground meat can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the process! Here’s how to ensure it’s well-cooked:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the meat and lock in juices. Medium heat is key.
- Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes for beef, depending on the quantity.
- If there’s excess fat, pour it out carefully to avoid a greasy salad later.
- Mixing in the taco seasoning thoroughly gives lots of flavor to the meat.
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 bag (9.75 oz) Doritos (flavor of your choice)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: jalapeños for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Doritos Taco Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and assemble. It’s quick and makes for a fun meal, perfect for any occasion. Just cook the meat, layer your ingredients, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep your salad nice and light.
2. Add Taco Flavor:
Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the cooked meat. Follow the instructions on the package, usually adding a bit of water and letting it simmer for about 5 minutes to get all that great flavor mixed in.
3. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the meat cools a bit, grab a large salad bowl and layer in the shredded lettuce as your fresh base. This will hold all the tasty layers above!
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Once the beef mixture is ready and slightly cooled, spoon it over the lettuce. Then, add the black beans, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and black olives on top. Don’t forget to add your Doritos; they’ll add a nice crunch!
5. Finish with Toppings:
Top off your salad with dollops of sour cream, then sprinkle on the chopped green onions and cilantro for fresh flavor. If you like it spicy, feel free to add jalapeños to taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Doritos Taco Salad is now ready to serve! Dig in immediately for the best crunch and enjoy every bite of this delicious dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still deliver delicious flavor. Just cook it in the same way as the ground beef, ensuring it’s browned thoroughly. Keep in mind that turkey may be less fatty, so you might want to adjust the taco seasoning to taste.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with more black beans or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with taco spices. This maintains the flavor profile while keeping it meat-free!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the Doritos separate until serving to maintain their crunch. Reheat the beef mixture if you prefer it warm, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
While you can prep ingredients ahead, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. You can cook the beef and chop veggies a few hours ahead, but layer them together without Doritos and dressing to avoid sogginess. Add those just before serving!
