As a busy mom, I always look for meals that are quick, delicious, and loved by my whole family. One of my go-to recipes is this Doritos Taco Salad. It’s not only easy to prepare but also a great way to bring everyone together around the table. I remember the first time I made this salad; my kids couldn’t get enough of the crunch from the Doritos and the tasty flavors of the seasoned beef.
This salad is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh veggies, savory beef, and the crunch of nacho cheese Doritos makes it a hit every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever I have on hand. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a casual weekend lunch, this taco salad never disappoints.
What I love most about this recipe is how it encourages creativity. You can throw in whatever veggies you have in the fridge or switch up the dressing to match your family’s taste. It’s all about making it your own and enjoying those moments together. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make this delightful Doritos Taco Salad!
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
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Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 to 4 romaine lettuce hearts, washed and chopped
- 1 large tomato, diced (or use cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Catalina dressing (or your favorite dressing)
- 1 ½ cups nacho cheese Doritos, crushed into bite-size pieces
- Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. Once done, drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning mix along with the water as directed on the package, then allow it to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes before removing it from the heat to cool a bit.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine, black beans, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Once the taco meat has cooled slightly, fold it into the bowl with the veggies and cheese, mixing gently to combine.
When you’re ready to serve, top the salad with the crushed Doritos and drizzle your choice of dressing over it. Toss everything together carefully to ensure each bite is well-coated. If you like, you can add some fresh cilantro on top for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious taco salad!
Storing Suggestion
This taco salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the Doritos separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their crunch.
Cooking Tips
To enhance the flavors of your taco salad, consider using a mix of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. For added creaminess, you can incorporate some avocado or a dollop of sour cream. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite combination!
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve the taco salad alongside tortilla chips and a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade. A side of guacamole also pairs beautifully and adds a delicious twist!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have ground beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or quinoa for protein. You can also substitute the Catalina dressing with ranch or a vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, add fresh corn or diced bell peppers to brighten up the salad. During the fall, consider incorporating roasted sweet potatoes or pumpkin seeds for a seasonal twist. This salad can adapt to whatever produce is in season!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (Doritos). For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortilla chips. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan cheese alternative or omitting cheese altogether for a lighter version.
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
While you can prepare the ingredients in advance, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the Doritos crunchy and the veggies fresh. If you need to prep ahead, keep each component stored separately.
What can I add to make it spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the salad. You can also sprinkle in some chili powder or cayenne pepper when cooking the beef for an extra kick.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To make this taco salad healthier, you can substitute leaner proteins like ground turkey or use extra beans instead of meat. Load it up with more vegetables like peppers, carrots, or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the crunch of the Doritos and the fun colors from the fresh veggies. You can also let them customize their salad with their favorite toppings, making it a fun family meal!
Can I use other types of chips?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the Doritos for your favorite tortilla chips, Fritos, or even pita chips for a unique twist. The crunch is key, so choose something that holds up well in the salad.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can last in the refrigerator for about 2 days. Just remember to keep the chips separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent them from getting soggy.
Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 to 4 romaine lettuce hearts washed and chopped
- 1 large tomato diced (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1.5 cups nacho cheese Doritos crushed into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup Catalina dressing or your favorite dressing
- fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a large pan over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the amount of water listed on the package. Let the beef simmer on low for 10 minutes, then remove it from the heat to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, toss together the romaine lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Add the slightly cooled taco meat and gently mix everything.
- When you're ready to serve, sprinkle the crushed Doritos on top and drizzle with your choice of dressing. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, making sure everything is evenly coated.
- If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!
