A delicious fusion of crunchy Doritos, seasoned taco beef, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch—this Dorito Taco Salad brings together bold Tex‑Mex flavors and textures in a fun, satisfying bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe balances flavors and textures—crunchy Doritos, juicy tomatoes, hearty beans, creamy ranch, and savory beef all in one bowl. It’s incredibly versatile too—whether I swap the beef for turkey, use Greek yogurt in the dressing, or load it up with extra veggies, it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s easy enough for weeknight dinners and impressive enough for gatherings.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning mix
– 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 1/2 cup sliced jalapenos
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 2 cups crushed Doritos
Directions
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I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain off the excess fat.
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I stir in the taco seasoning and water according to the package directions, and simmer it for 5–7 minutes until it thickens.
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In a large bowl, I combine shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cheddar cheese, black beans, black olives, and jalapenos.
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I add the seasoned beef to the bowl and toss everything gently together.
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I pour the ranch dressing over the salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients.
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Right before serving, I sprinkle the crushed Doritos on top to maintain their crunch.
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I serve immediately, garnishing with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.
Servings and timing
– Servings: 6
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: About 10–12 minutes
– Total time: Approximately 25–27 minutes
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1–2 days. To keep the Doritos crunchy, I always stash them separately and add them just before serving. If I make extra beef, I keep it chilled too and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove—then toss it with fresh greens and toppings.
FAQs
How can I meal-prep this salad?
I prepare each component—beef, chopped veggies, beans, cheese, and dressing—in separate containers, then assemble everything the day I serve it to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What are good substitutions for ranch dressing?
I’ve swapped ranch for Greek yogurt mixed with taco seasoning for a lighter option or used salsa or chipotle dressing when I’m craving a different flavor.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely—I replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra black beans to make a tasty vegetarian version.
How spicy is this salad?
The spice level depends on how many jalapenos I add. I start with a small amount and taste before adding more. Omitting jalapenos entirely gives a mild, family-friendly dish.
Can I use Doritos flavors other than plain?
Yes! I’ve used Nacho Cheese and Cool Ranch Doritos to great effect—each gives a unique twist. Just pick your favorite flavor to change up the taste profile.
Conclusion
I hope this Dorito Taco Salad brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s a perfect blend of flavor, color, and crunch—a dish that’s easy to customize and delightful for almost any occasion. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a fun party game-changer, this salad never disappoints. Enjoy every burst of flavor and crunchy bite!
