If you’re looking for a meal that’s fresh, fun, and full of flavor, this Dorito Taco Salad is about to become your new favorite dinner. It’s loaded with seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, sweet corn, black beans, cheese, and of course, crunchy nacho Doritos! Every bite is a mix of textures and tastes — bold, tangy, and downright addictive.
This easy salad comes together in about 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or backyard get-togethers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 6–8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add the flavor
Stir in the taco seasoning and black beans. Add a splash of water if needed to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for a minute or two, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prep the veggies
While the beef cools, chop the lettuce, tomato, red pepper, and any optional toppings. Be sure to drain or squeeze excess liquid from the tomato to prevent sogginess.
Step 4: Mix the base
In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, tomato, corn, cheese, and red pepper. Toss gently to mix.
Step 5: Add the beef and dressing
Once the beef mixture has cooled a bit, add it to the bowl. Pour over the Catalina dressing (or your dressing of choice) and toss everything until evenly coated.
Step 6: Finish with crunch
Just before serving, add the broken Doritos and give the salad one last gentle toss. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, think sour cream, salsa, or a squeeze of lime.
Notes & Tips
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the beef for extra beans or plant-based crumbles.
- Spice it up: Use spicy taco seasoning or add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Dressing alternatives: Ranch, salsa ranch, or lime vinaigrette also pair perfectly.
- Keep it fresh: If you’re prepping ahead, store the ingredients separately and mix in the dressing and chips right before serving.
- Customize it: Add black olives, green onions, pico de gallo, or guacamole — make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all the components (beef, beans, and chopped veggies) up to a day in advance and refrigerate separately. Add dressing and Doritos just before serving to keep everything crisp.
2. What’s the best dressing for Dorito Taco Salad?
Catalina is classic, but ranch or salsa ranch dressing gives a creamy, tangy twist. You can even mix half ranch and half salsa for a homemade “taco sauce.”
3. Can I use a different kind of Doritos?
Absolutely! While nacho cheese flavor is traditional, Cool Ranch or Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos are also great choices.
4. Can I serve it warm?
You can! If you prefer, serve the salad immediately after mixing the warm beef with the cold veggies — it’ll be slightly wilted but deliciously cozy.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover salad (without the Doritos) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add fresh Doritos before eating to keep the crunch.
Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain grease if necessary. Calories: Approximately 550-650 (depending on toppings and dressing amount)
Protein: 30-35g
Carbs: 45-55g
Fat: 30-40g
Ingredients
Instructions
Stir in black beans and taco seasoning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Chop the tomato and squeeze out excess liquid to prevent a soggy salad.
In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, tomato, corn, cheese, and red pepper.
Top with cooled ground beef mixture.
Stir in Catalina dressing and top with broken Doritos. If making ahead, add dressing and Doritos just before serving to prevent sogginess.Nutrition