Easy Dorito Taco Salad Recipe: Perfect for Potlucks, Picnics, and Weeknight Dinners

If you're a fan of tacos and Doritos, get ready to fall in love with this Dorito Taco Salad! This fun, flavor-packed dish is a delightful twist on the classic taco salad, making it perfect for any occasion—from potlucks to weeknight dinners. The combination of crunchy Doritos, fresh veggies, and seasoned beef creates an explosion of textures and flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first came across this recipe on Recipes by Lisa, and I just had to share it with you all! It's become a staple in my house because of how easy and quick it is to put together. Not to mention, it’s always a hit whenever I bring it to a gathering. With its bold flavors and crispy crunch, it's an instant crowd-pleaser. So, let's dive in and make this Dorito Taco Salad your new favorite go-to recipe.

A Little Backstory:

The Dorito Taco Salad has roots in the classic taco salad, a Tex-Mex favorite that combines the flavors of tacos into a hearty and fresh salad. By adding Doritos, we take this dish to a whole new level, infusing it with a satisfying crunch and the unmistakable zesty flavor that everyone loves. Whether you're using Nacho Cheese Doritos or switching things up with Cool Ranch, this salad is sure to become a family favorite.

How to Make Dorito Taco Salad:

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 2 cups Doritos (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup salsa
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the Beef: Start by browning the ground beef (or turkey) in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked, drain the excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the seasoning to meld with the meat.
2. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and shredded cheese. This is the fresh and vibrant base of your taco salad.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the seasoned beef to the salad mix, tossing everything together to combine those hearty flavors.
4. Add the Doritos: Just before serving, gently fold in the Doritos to keep them nice and crunchy. This is where the magic happens—the chips bring an irresistible texture and bold taste to every bite.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the salad with sour cream and salsa, mixing gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Garnish and Serve: If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Then, dig in and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• If you're looking to make a healthier version, you can substitute the ground beef for ground turkey, or skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian option. Simply add extra black beans or some seasoned tofu for protein.
• Want a little extra crunch? Add a handful of crushed tortilla chips along with the Doritos for added texture.
• For a low-carb version, skip the Doritos and opt for a lettuce wrap taco salad or serve it over a bed of extra greens.

Pairing Suggestions:

This Dorito Taco Salad pairs perfectly with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer for a fun and festive meal. You can also serve it alongside guacamole and chips, or even some Mexican street corn to complete the fiesta.

Call to Action:

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