After a busy workday or when you just want something stress-free, this Doritos Taco Salad delivers. It’s the kind of meal that comes together quickly but still feels like a treat after a long day.
The flavors are bold and comforting with crunchy chips, tangy dressing, seasoned beef, and crisp veggies all in one bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for lunch, this salad makes it easy.
This is where it gets really easy.
Ingredients for Doritos Taco Salad
For a salad everyone’s excited about, here’s what you need:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20 lean for best flavor)
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 head iceberg lettuce
- 16 fl oz Catalina dressing (try Annie’s Organic Catalina Dressing)
- 1 bag nacho cheese tortilla chips (crushed just before serving)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
How to Make Doritos Taco Salad
Step 1: Cook the Hamburger
Place the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat and let it cook through until browned. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks for even browning and nice crumbles.
Once it’s cooked, drain off any excess grease. The meat should be juicy but not oily.
This is where it comes together.
Step 2: Season the Meat
With the skillet back on the stove, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef. Add water if your seasoning packet directs usually about three-quarters of a cup. Simmer everything until the seasoning is well absorbed and the mixture is fragrant, then set aside to cool off a bit before mixing into the salad.
Now it starts to smell amazing.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad Mixture
In a big mixing bowl, combine your cooled, seasoned hamburger with the chopped iceberg lettuce, fresh diced tomatoes, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss the salad well so you get a little bit of everything in every bite.
Pop the bowl in the fridge until it’s time to eat.
Step 4: Final Assembly and Serving
When you’re ready to serve, take the bowl out and pour over your Catalina dressing. Toss until everything is lightly coated and evenly mixed.
Top with crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos right before serving they’ll bring that irresistible crunch.
Serve straight away for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Doritos Taco Salad
Don’t Mix Chips Too Soon
Add the chips last so they stay crunchy and don’t get soggy.
Make It Meal Prep Friendly
Keep the meat and veggies separate until serving. Assemble when ready to eat for fresher leftovers.
Switch Up the Cheese
You can swap cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican blend for a new twist.
Why You’ll Love Doritos Taco Salad
- Super easy to throw together
- Affordable ingredients
- On the table in about 30 minutes
- Always popular with kids and adults
Final Thoughts on Doritos Taco Salad
If you’ve got a busy night or just need something that everyone actually wants to eat, Doritos Taco Salad covers all the bases. It’s fast, fun, and you can switch up the toppings or spice level to suit your family.
Definitely one to keep on repeat in your easy dinner rotation!
Easy Doritos Taco Salad for Fast Family Dinners
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 2 tomatoes (diced)
- 1 head iceberg lettuce (shredded)
- 16 fl oz Catalina dressing (e.g., Annie’s Organic)
- 1 bag nacho cheese tortilla chips (crushed at serving time)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (with water if specified)
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned; drain excess grease.
- Season cooked beef with taco seasoning and water (if needed), simmering until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled beef, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and cheddar cheese; toss well.
- Chill salad until ready to serve.
- Before serving, pour Catalina dressing over the salad and toss. Top with freshly crushed Doritos.
Notes
Store cooled meat and veggies separately for meal prepping.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Mexican blend cheese if preferred.