Dorito Taco Salad

Dorito Taco Salad is the ultimate party dish, combining the crunch of Doritos with all the classic taco salad ingredients. It’s easy to make, super flavorful, and a big hit at any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a BBQ, potluck, or just a casual weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy!

Dorito Taco Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter version)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning, see below)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean meat)

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped (or 1 bag of pre-washed salad mix)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)

• 1/2 red onion, finely diced

• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1/2 cup salsa (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 bag (9-10 oz) Doritos (nacho cheese or any flavor you prefer)

• Optional: Jalapeños, avocado, or cilantro for garnish

Optional Homemade Taco Seasoning (instead of packet):

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

   • Drain any excess fat if needed, then add the taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix). Add 1/4 cup water and stir until well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Salad:

   • While the beef is cooking, chop the romaine lettuce (or open your pre-washed bag of lettuce) and place it in a large salad bowl.

   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese, black beans, diced tomatoes, and red onion to the salad bowl.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • Add the cooked ground beef to the salad bowl. Gently toss everything together.

4. Add the Crunch:

   • Just before serving, crush the Doritos slightly in the bag or with your hands (leaving some large pieces for texture) and add them to the salad. This gives the salad its signature crunch!

5. Top with Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and salsa together. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with optional toppings like jalapeños, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and freshness.

7. Enjoy!

   • Serve immediately to enjoy the crunchiness of the Doritos. If you’re making this ahead of time, keep the Doritos and dressing separate until right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

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Tips & Variations:

• Meatless Version: For a vegetarian or meatless version, substitute the ground beef with black beans, kidney beans, or a plant-based protein.

• Extra Veggies: Add corn, bell peppers, or avocado to the salad for more color and flavor.

• Dressing Variations: You can swap the sour cream and salsa with a ranch dressing, creamy cilantro dressing, or even a tangy lime vinaigrette.

• Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or some chili powder to the beef or salad for an extra kick.

Why This Salad is a Winner:

• Crunchy & Flavorful: The Doritos give it that perfect crunch, and the seasoned ground beef adds tons of savory flavor.

• Customizable: You can mix in your favorite taco toppings and adjust the heat level to your liking.

• Quick & Easy: It’s a 30-minute meal that’s easy to make, even for a weeknight dinner.

This Dorito Taco Salad is perfect if you’re craving something indulgent, yet customizable, and always a hit with family or guests. Would you add any other toppings or change up the dressing? Let me know if you want to explore more variations!