Introduction
The Dorito Taco Salad is a playful twist on the classic taco salad, adding bold flavor and crunch thanks to Doritos chips. This dish combines seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, shredded cheese, and zesty dressing, all tossed together with crushed Doritos for a salad that feels hearty, fun, and satisfying. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for gatherings, summer barbecues, or even weeknight family meals.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper)
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped (or romaine for extra crunch)
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 cup canned black beans or kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup canned corn (drained)
1 medium red onion, diced (optional)
1–2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1 large bag (9–10 oz / 250–280 g) Doritos (nacho cheese flavor is classic)
1 cup ranch dressing, Catalina dressing, or French dressing (depending on preference) Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, avocado chunks, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions
1. Cook the beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
Drain excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well coated. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the veggies
Chop lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Dice tomatoes, onion, and any other vegetables you’d like to add.
Place everything in a large salad bowl along with beans and corn.
3. Assemble the salad
Add the cooled taco meat into the salad bowl.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Crush Doritos slightly (not into crumbs, just bite-sized pieces) and add them to the salad.
4. Dress and toss
Drizzle dressing of choice (Catalina is tangy-sweet, ranch is creamy, French is zesty).
Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Tips & Variations
Make-ahead tip: Prepare all ingredients separately. Wait to add Doritos and dressing until just before serving so the chips stay crunchy.
Protein options: Swap ground beef for grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Healthier twist: Use baked tortilla chips instead of Doritos, or lighten the dressing with Greek yogurt.
Extra toppings: Add guacamole, salsa, or pickled jalapeños for more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in a large bowl for sharing at potlucks and parties.
For fun individual servings, layer ingredients in mason jars or small bowls.
Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a refreshing agua fresca for a summer vibe.
Conclusion
The Dorito Taco Salad is bold, crunchy, and impossible to resist. It brings together all the flavors of a taco in a refreshing salad form, with the Doritos adding that signature cheesy crunch. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a summer barbecue, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite — simple, colorful, and deliciously fun.