This fun Doritos Taco Salad combines crunchy Doritos with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing. It’s a colorful dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering!
Honestly, who can resist that crunch? I love how it mixes all the flavors together. It’s like a party in your mouth! 🎉 You can even customize it with your favorite toppings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (or Turkey): Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but you can substitute with turkey for a leaner option. I’ve tried both, and I find turkey works well especially if you add extra seasoning!
Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought or make your own with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. I prefer homemade for a personal touch and you can control the spice level!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, kidney beans or chickpeas work great too. I love chickpeas for a different texture!
Doritos: Nacho cheese flavor is classic, but you can switch to Cool Ranch if you like that flavor. For a healthier option, try baked tortilla chips for crunch.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute if you’re after a lighter version or want more protein. It adds creaminess with a tangy flavor!
How Do I Cook Ground Meat Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking ground meat might seem easy, but it’s essential to get it just right. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and add a bit of olive oil. It helps cook the meat evenly.
- Cook on medium heat until browned, stirring occasionally to break it up. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and tasty.
- Mix in taco seasoning and add a splash of water; simmer this for a few minutes. This keeps the meat flavorful and moist.
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Doritos (nacho cheese flavor), crushed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Doritos Taco Salad will take you about 20 minutes to prepare! You’ll need a few minutes for cooking the meat, and then just mix everything together. It’s a quick and fun dish that’s perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any extra fat afterward, so your salad doesn’t get greasy!
2. Season the Meat:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning according to the package directions. You might need to add a little water and let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens up. This is where all that delicious flavor comes in!
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a big bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, drained black beans, corn, and halved cherry tomatoes. Then add your cooked taco meat into the bowl. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
4. Add the Crunch:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Gently fold in the crushed Doritos and shredded cheddar cheese, taking care not to crush the chips too much. You want that nice crunch in every bite!
5. Top It Off:
To finish, dollop sour cream on top and sprinkle with sliced black olives and green onions if you’re using them. Don’t forget to add fresh cilantro for that burst of flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Doritos Taco Salad is ready to go! Serve it immediately and enjoy this colorful and tasty dish with family and friends.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be mindful that turkey may have less fat, so it might cook a bit quicker. You can add a little extra olive oil while cooking to ensure it stays moist.
What Can I Substitute for Doritos?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or don’t have Doritos, you can use baked tortilla chips or even tortilla strips. For a gluten-free version, look for corn chips that don’t have added gluten ingredients. Just keep the crunch factor in mind!
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time! Cook the beef and let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Keep the salad ingredients (like lettuce and tomatoes) separate until serving to prevent sogginess. Ideally, combine everything no more than a few hours before serving for maximum freshness.
How to Store Leftover Doritos Taco Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the Doritos separate until you’re ready to eat, as they will get soggy. Just give the salad a good toss before serving again!
