Dorito Taco Salad

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If you love tacos and crave a little crunch in your salad, this Dorito Taco Salad is a must-try! Inspired by a restaurant favorite, this recipe combines seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, bold cheddar cheese, and crunchy Nacho Cheese Doritos for a delicious twist on a classic taco salad. Tossed with a mix of Italian and ranch dressing, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite! Whether you’re making it for a casual family meal, potluck, or game night, this salad is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

  • 1 large bag Doritos Nacho Cheese Chips, lightly crushed
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 head lettuce, shredded
  • 6 tomatoes, chopped
  • ½ cup Italian dressing
  • 2 cups ranch dressing

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning.
  4. Add both dressings (Italian and ranch) and let the mixture simmer until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

  1. Shred the lettuce and chop the tomatoes.
  2. Dice the red onion.
  3. Lightly crush the Doritos chips into bite-sized pieces (not crumbs!).
  4. Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Option 1: Individual Servings (Best for Freshness)

  • Keep the toppings, beef, cheese, and chips in separate bowls so everyone can build their own salad to their liking.
  • This method also prevents leftovers from getting soggy!

Option 2: Fully Mixed Salad (Best for Immediate Serving)

  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, seasoned beef, tomatoes, diced onion, cheddar cheese, and crushed Doritos chips.
  • Toss everything together and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

  • Protein Options – Swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or black beans for a different twist.
  • Spice It Up – Add jalapeños or use spicy ranch for an extra kick.
  • More Crunch – Toss in crushed Fritos or tortilla strips for a variation in texture.
  • Dressing Alternatives – Use Catalina dressing instead of Italian for a sweeter tang, or avocado dressing for a creamy twist.
  • Make It a Meal – Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping!

How to Store Leftovers

  • Keep Ingredients Separate: For the freshest leftovers, store the meat, chips, and toppings separately in airtight containers.
  • Refrigeration:
    • Beef mixture: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
    • Vegetables & cheese: Keep refrigerated in separate containers for 2–3 days.
    • Doritos chips: Store at room temperature in a resealable bag to keep them crispy.
  • Reheating: Warm up the beef in the microwave or a skillet before assembling a fresh salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Dorito Taco Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prep all the ingredients separately and store them in the fridge. Assemble the salad right before serving to keep the chips from getting soggy.

2. Can I use a different type of Doritos?

Absolutely! Try Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or Flamin’ Hot Doritos for a fun flavor twist.

3. Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! Store the ingredients separately and build your salad fresh each day for a quick and tasty lunch.

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4. What can I serve with this salad?

Pair it with Mexican rice, refried beans, or fresh guacamole for a full meal.

5. Can I make this salad without meat?

Yes! Replace the beef with black beans, pinto beans, or grilled veggies for a vegetarian version.

This Dorito Taco Salad is the perfect balance of crunchy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Whether served as a quick lunch, a party favorite, or a fun family dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

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