Description
Crunchy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this taco salad features seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, shredded cheese, and a generous handful of crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos. It’s tossed in a zesty Catalina or ranch dressing and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
-
1 lb (450g) ground beef
-
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
-
1/2 cup water
-
1 large head of romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
-
1 cup canned corn, drained (optional)
-
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
-
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
-
1–2 cups Nacho Cheese Doritos, lightly crushed
-
1 avocado, diced (optional)
-
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Dressing:
-
1/2 to 3/4 cup Catalina dressing (classic choice)
or -
Ranch or Southwest-style ranch dressing (for a creamier version)
Instructions
-
Cook the beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. -
Add taco seasoning:
Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Let it cool slightly before adding to the salad. -
Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, tomatoes, onion, beans, corn, cheese, and any optional toppings like avocado or olives. -
Add Doritos & beef:
Just before serving, mix in the crushed Doritos and seasoned ground beef. -
Dress it up:
Drizzle your preferred dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Start with 1/2 cup and add more to taste.
Notes
-
Make it meatless: Swap the ground beef for taco-seasoned black beans or plant-based crumbles.
-
Add heat: Toss in chopped jalapeños or drizzle with spicy chipotle ranch.
-
Meal prep: Keep the Doritos and dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunch.
-
Switch the chips: Try Cool Ranch Doritos or Spicy Sweet Chili for a twist.