Description
This vibrant Dorito Taco Salad combines seasoned ground beef with crunchy Doritos, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado for a delightful Tex-Mex-inspired main course. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish that balances bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 3/4 cup water
Salad Base
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 avocado, diced
Dressing and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup Catalina or French dressing
- 3 cups Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed slightly
- Sour cream (optional)
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy salad.
- Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup water with the browned beef. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat well. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly to avoid wilting the salad ingredients.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and diced avocado. Toss gently to mix.
- Add the Taco Meat: Add the cooled taco meat to the salad bowl and toss gently again to distribute the meat evenly without crushing the ingredients.
- Add Dressing: Pour your choice of Catalina or French dressing over the salad and toss until all components are evenly coated for that tangy, flavorful finish.
- Add Doritos and Garnish: Just before serving, carefully fold in the crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos to keep their crunch. Garnish with sour cream and chopped cilantro if desired, then serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier twist, use spicy Doritos or add fresh jalapeños to the salad.
- To keep the Doritos crunchy, add them last and serve the salad immediately.
- Ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes can be used instead of beef for alternative protein options.
