Name: Dorito Taco Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 package taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning); 1 tomato, chopped (or ½ cup canned diced, drained); 1 head romaine lettuce (or preferred variety), chopped; 1 cup sweet canned corn, drained; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped; ¾ cup Catalina dressing; 2 cups nacho flavor Doritos (broken into pieces, about 80 grams); Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, salsa, red onion, green onions, lime wedges, pico de gallo, black olives, etc.

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Dorito Taco Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the crunchy, cheesy goodness of nacho-flavored Doritos with classic taco ingredients for a fresh and satisfying meal. This salad is perfect for those who love Tex-Mex flavors but want something quick, easy, and packed with texture. The ground beef is seasoned with bold taco spices, paired with hearty black beans, crisp romaine lettuce, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed together with creamy Catalina dressing. The broken Doritos add a nostalgic crunch that makes every bite a fun experience.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a party dish, or a potluck favorite, this salad comes together quickly and offers endless possibilities for customization. It’s colorful, filling, and brings a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and crunchy elements that taco lovers crave. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor. This Dorito Taco Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy and Flavorful – Nacho Doritos add a fun, crispy texture and cheesy flavor.
Easy to Make – Quick assembly with simple ingredients and minimal cooking.
Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or salsa.
Nutritious Boost – Black beans and veggies add fiber and vitamins.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for casual dinners, parties, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Lean ground beef
Black beans (drained and rinsed)
Taco seasoning
Tomato (chopped or canned diced)
Romaine lettuce (or another variety)
Sweet canned corn (drained)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Red pepper (finely chopped)
Catalina dressing
Nacho-flavored Doritos (broken)
Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, salsa, red onion, green onions, lime wedges, pico de gallo, black olives

Variations

Vegetarian Version

Replace ground beef with seasoned black beans or plant-based meat substitute.

Spicy Kick

Add fresh jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning.

Creamy Dressing Swap

Use ranch, chipotle, or avocado dressing instead of Catalina for different flavors.

Extra Veggies

Add cucumbers, radishes, avocado, or bell peppers for more crunch and color.

Gluten-Free

Ensure taco seasoning and Doritos are gluten-free; use gluten-free dressings.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 2

Add taco seasoning to the beef along with a little water (as per seasoning instructions) and simmer until well combined.

Step 3

In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, tomato, red pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4

Add the cooked taco-seasoned beef to the vegetable mixture and toss gently.

Step 5

Pour Catalina dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6

Just before serving, sprinkle broken nacho Doritos over the top for crunch.

Step 7

Garnish with optional toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, or lime wedges as desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Add Doritos just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Use fresh vegetables for maximum crispness.
Drain and rinse beans well to avoid excess liquid.
Adjust seasoning to taste—add extra taco seasoning or hot sauce if desired.
Chop ingredients uniformly for even flavor distribution.

How to Serve

Serve the salad in large bowls or on individual plates. This dish works well as a main meal or a side for barbecues and Mexican-themed dinners. Pair with chips and salsa or a cold drink to complete the fiesta vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store salad and Doritos separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Not recommended, as lettuce and Doritos will lose texture.

Reheating

Reheat cooked beef only; serve salad cold and add fresh Doritos before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, both are excellent lean alternatives.

2. How do I keep the Doritos from getting soggy?

Add them just before serving.

3. Can I make this salad vegan?

Use plant-based beef substitutes, vegan cheese, and dressing.

4. Is Catalina dressing necessary?

You can substitute with your favorite dressing like ranch or avocado.

5. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Prepare all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.

6. What type of beans work best?

Black beans are classic, but pinto or kidney beans can be used.

7. Can I add avocado?

Absolutely! Fresh avocado adds creaminess and flavor.

8. Is this salad spicy?

Not unless you add spicy toppings or hot sauce.

9. How do I make homemade taco seasoning?

Use a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

10. Can I use homemade dressing?

Yes, a homemade Catalina or vinaigrette works great.

Conclusion

Dorito Taco Salad is a deliciously fun and easy meal that blends classic taco flavors with the irresistible crunch of Doritos. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or when you just want a satisfying dish that’s quick to whip up. With endless ways to customize and fresh ingredients, this salad will quickly become a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.