This Doritos Taco Salad is the kind of recipe that disappears fast once it hits the table. It’s bold, crunchy, creamy, and packed with familiar taco flavors that both kids and adults love. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, potlucks, or parties, this salad brings together seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, crispy corn chips, and a tangy homemade dressing in one irresistible bowl. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
What makes this salad truly special is the contrast of textures. You get the warmth of the seasoned beef, the cool crunch of lettuce, the creaminess of avocado, and the unmistakable crunch of corn chips that give this dish its signature character. Served as a main course or a hearty side, it’s a fun and satisfying twist on classic taco night.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 head iceberg lettuce or 6 cups chopped mixed lettuces
- 4 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 avocados, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 cups crunchy corn chips, plain or flavored
For the dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional, to taste)
👩🍳 Instructions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Continue stirring until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. If there is excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it to keep the salad from becoming greasy.
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning and the drained kidney beans. Mix well so the seasoning coats the meat evenly and the beans are well distributed. Let the mixture heat through for another 2 to 3 minutes, then remove it from the heat and set aside slightly to cool.
While the beef is resting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, sugar, taco seasoning, and hot sauce if using. The dressing should be smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy, with a mild kick that complements the salad without overpowering it.
In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, shredded cheddar cheese, and the warm beef mixture. Just before serving, add the crunchy corn chips and pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated, making sure the chips stay as crunchy as possible.
⏱️ Time & Serving
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serve immediately for maximum crunch and enjoy a colorful, flavorful salad that always brings people back for seconds. 🌮🥗