Doritos Taco Salad is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional taco salad, featuring crunchy Doritos chips, seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, and a zesty taco dressing.

It’s perfect for quick dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a salad with a little extra crunch and bold flavor.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Large mixing bowl
Cutting board and knife
Spatula

Ingredients Overview

Ground Beef: Provides the protein base for this salad.
Taco Seasoning: Adds a bold and spicy flavor to the beef.
Doritos Chips: Brings a unique crunch and cheesy flavor.
Lettuce: Acts as the fresh and crisp foundation of the salad.
Vegetables: Tomatoes, onions, and optional black olives add a refreshing touch.
Shredded Cheese: Complements the beef and Doritos with a creamy texture.
Dressing: A simple mix of ranch or Catalina dressing enhances the overall taste.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 head iceberg or romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup red onion, diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 (9.75-ounce) bag Doritos, crushed
¾ cup Catalina or ranch dressing
Optional: Sliced black olives, diced avocado, or jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
Stir in the taco seasoning and prepare according to the packet instructions. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

2. Prep the Vegetables

Wash and chop the lettuce, dice the onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and shredded cheese.
Add the slightly cooled taco beef to the bowl.

4. Add Doritos and Dressing

Just before serving, sprinkle the crushed Doritos over the salad.
Drizzle the Catalina or ranch dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve

Portion into bowls or plates and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

Wait to Add Doritos: Add the chips and dressing just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to add corn, beans, or your favorite taco ingredients to personalize the salad.
Make it Healthier: Use baked Doritos and ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a fun, Tex-Mex-inspired meal.
A refreshing fruit salad or lemonade complements the zesty flavors perfectly.
Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the components (cook the beef, chop the veggies) ahead of time, but wait to combine everything until just before serving.

What other chips can I use?
If you don’t have Doritos, try tortilla chips, Fritos, or another flavored chip you love.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add fresh Doritos and dressing when ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

This Doritos Taco Salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or potlucks. Its mix of textures and bold, cheesy flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!