Can I use a different flavor of Doritos?

Absolutely! While Nacho Cheese Doritos are the classic choice, you can totally switch it up with Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or any flavor that calls out to you. Each will bring a unique twist to your salad.

Can I make this Dorito Taco Salad vegetarian?

Definitely! Just swap out the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. The result is just as hearty and flavorful—promise!

What’s the best dressing for Dorito Taco Salad?

Both ranch and Catalina dressings complement this salad beautifully. Ranch offers a creamy, cooling touch, while Catalina brings a tangy-sweet punch. Try both and see which one steals your heart!

Can I prepare Dorito Taco Salad in advance for a party?

You sure can! Just prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Toss everything together, including the Doritos and dressing, right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Dorito Taco Salad Recipe: Crunchy, Irresistible & Easy!

Name: Dorito Taco Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) ground beef – Cooked and seasoned for a flavorful, hearty base.; 1 packet (1 oz / 28g) taco seasoning – Adds bold, zesty Tex-Mex spices.; 6 cups chopped lettuce (Romaine or Iceberg) – Fresh and crunchy base for the salad.; 2 medium tomatoes, diced – Juicy bites that add color and freshness.; 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese – Creamy, melty cheese to tie all the flavors together.; 2 cups (120g) Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed – The star ingredient for that cheesy crunch.; 1/2 cup (120ml) ranch dressing or Catalina dressing – Creamy or tangy to bring everything together.; 1 cup (170g) black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds extra protein and heartiness.; 1/4 cup (25g) sliced green onions – Adds a mild oniony kick and fresh garnish.; 1 ripe avocado, diced – Creamy and rich for extra indulgence.; 1/4 cup (30g) sliced jalapeños – Adds a spicy kick for heat lovers.; 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream – Creamy and cool, perfect for topping.

Description

This Dorito Taco Salad Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Packed with bold flavors and an irresistible cheesy crunch, this easy-to-make salad combines seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, creamy cheese, and crispy nacho cheese Doritos for a fun twist on classic taco night. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings and comes together in under 30 minutes. Every bite is a crunchy, savory explosion of Tex-Mex goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 pound (450g) ground beef – Cooked and seasoned for a flavorful, hearty base.
1 packet (1 oz / 28g) taco seasoning – Adds bold, zesty Tex-Mex spices.
6 cups chopped lettuce (Romaine or Iceberg) – Fresh and crunchy base for the salad.
2 medium tomatoes, diced – Juicy bites that add color and freshness.
1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese – Creamy, melty cheese to tie all the flavors together.
2 cups (120g) Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed – The star ingredient for that cheesy crunch.
1/2 cup (120ml) ranch dressing or Catalina dressing – Creamy or tangy to bring everything together.

Optional Toppings

1 cup (170g) black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds extra protein and heartiness.
1/4 cup (25g) sliced green onions – Adds a mild oniony kick and fresh garnish.
1 ripe avocado, diced – Creamy and rich for extra indulgence.
1/4 cup (30g) sliced jalapeños – Adds a spicy kick for heat lovers.
1/2 cup (120g) sour cream – Creamy and cool, perfect for topping.

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain the excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning with a splash of water. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
While the beef cooks, chop the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, shred the cheese, and slice the green onions. Get any optional toppings like avocado or jalapeños ready.
Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and seasoned beef. Add black beans and other optional ingredients if using.
Add the Doritos
Crush the Doritos into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the salad.
Dress and Toss
Drizzle your choice of ranch or Catalina dressing over the salad, then gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while the Doritos are still crispy and fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.

Notes

Add the Doritos right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your taco seasoning or toss in some sliced jalapeños.
Catalina dressing gives a tangy-sweet contrast, while ranch offers a creamy, cooling balance try both to see which you prefer!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad, Main Course
Method: Stovetop, Tossed
Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Dorito taco salad, taco salad recipe, easy taco salad, Tex-Mex salad, ground beef taco salad, potluck recipe, game day recipe, crunchy salad, easy family dinner