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This Doritos Taco Salad brings together the bold flavors of taco seasoned ground beef with the irresistible crunch of nacho cheese Doritos and a sweet tangy Catalina dressing. It’s a lively, filling dish that makes a perfect side for cookouts or a fun twist for weeknight dinners. The combination of textures and flavors is genuinely addictive and lighter than you might expect.
I first discovered this recipe at a Memorial Day gathering and immediately knew it would become a regular crowd favorite in my house.
Ingredients
- One pound 95 percent lean ground beef: Choose lean beef for a healthier option that still has plenty of flavor
- One packet reduced sodium taco seasoning: Keep the sodium low without sacrificing the authentic taco taste
- One mediumlarge head iceberg lettuce: Look for crisp, fresh lettuce to give your salad that cool crunch
- One mediumlarge tomato: Ripe tomatoes add juiciness and a touch of natural sweetness
- Four ounces 50 percent less fat sharp cheddar cheese: I like Cabot brand for its sharp flavor without the extra fat
- Four ounces nacho cheese Doritos: Break into bitesized pieces to maintain that signature crunch throughout
- One cup light Catalina or French dressing: Kraft Lite Catalina works well for a sweet and tangy finishing touch
Instructions
- Sauté the Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the lean ground beef. Break it up carefully with a wooden spoon while cooking to ensure it browns evenly. Cook until no pink remains, about 7 to 8 minutes.
- Add Seasoning:
- Sprinkle the reduced sodium taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir well to coat every bit of the meat with those classic taco flavors. Turn off the heat and set the skillet aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, diced tomato, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and the taco seasoned beef. Toss gently just to mix these ingredients together evenly.
- Add Doritos and Dressing Last:
- When you are ready to serve the salad, break up the nacho cheese Doritos into bite sized pieces and sprinkle over the top. Pour the light Catalina dressing over everything and toss carefully to coat without crushing the chips.
- Enjoy Immediately:
- This salad is best savored right away so that the Doritos stay crunchy and the dressing keeps its bright flavor.
Doritos are my favorite ingredient because they bring a nostalgic, fun crunch that reminds me of family gatherings and summer cookouts. One year, my niece declared it the official dish of our holiday get togethers, and ever since, it’s been a tradition to make it each time we all come together.
Storage tips
If you want to store leftovers, keep the Doritos and salad dressing in separate containers from the lettuce, veggies, cheese, and meat. Combine them only right before serving so you keep that satisfying crunch in every bite. The salad base will stay fresh and crisp in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Ingredient substitutions
Lean ground turkey or chicken can replace the ground beef for a lighter protein option with a milder flavor that works beautifully with the taco seasoning. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the meat for seasoned cooked black beans or a plant based ground meat substitute. Use any sharp cheddar or your favorite shredded cheese if 50 percent less fat options are not available. For the dressing, French dressing is a classic alternative to Catalina and gives a similar sweet and tangy profile.
Serving suggestions
Serve this salad alongside grilled corn on the cob and fresh guacamole for a festive Mexican inspired meal. It works well as a main dish for casual lunches or easy dinners. Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and richness if you want to treat yourself. Add sweet corn kernels in summer for a fresh pop of sweetness, warm the seasoned beef mixture in winter, or include black beans and chopped bell peppers in fall for hearty extra texture and color.
Enjoy this salad immediately for the best texture and crunch. Add optional toppings like avocado or sour cream to elevate the flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of Doritos work best?
Nacho cheese flavored Doritos provide the perfect balance of cheesy crunch and spice to complement the savory beef.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well, offering a lighter or vegetarian alternative while keeping flavor intact.
- → How do I keep the salad crunchy when serving?
Add the Doritos and dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess and maintain the dish’s satisfying texture.
- → What dressing options pair well with this dish?
Light Catalina or French dressing both add a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the taco-seasoned beef and crunchy chips.
- → Can I customize this dish with additional ingredients?
Absolutely. Black beans, corn, or black olives can be added to enhance flavor and texture based on personal preference.