Doritos Taco Salad

Let’s talk about one of my absolute favorite salads, the Doritos Taco Salad! If you’ve never had it, you’re in for a treat. This dish is the perfect blend of crunchy, savory, and satisfying.
I mean, who can resist the combination of crunchy Doritos, seasoned ground beef, creamy dressing, and all those delicious toppings? It’s a fun twist on your classic taco salad, and it’s so easy to make. I like to whip it up when I’m craving something that feels a little indulgent but isn’t too complicated to throw together.
One of the best things about this salad is how versatile it is. You can change it up with whatever ingredients you have on hand or whatever you’re in the mood for that day. Sometimes I throw in some extra veggies, or if I’m feeling extra indulgent, I might add a little more cheese.
It’s the kind of dish where you can easily customize it to your tastes, and it always tastes great. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd at a party or family gathering.
Now, I know what you’re probably thinking — how can a salad that involves chips even be considered healthy? Well, while Doritos taco salad isn’t exactly the lightest dish, it’s all about balance. You get a little bit of everything — protein, veggies, and that irresistible crunch from the Doritos.
It’s indulgent without being over-the-top, and when you’re craving something that hits all the right flavor notes, this salad is where it’s at.
What is Doritos Taco Salad?
Doritos taco salad is a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional taco salad. It combines the usual taco fixings like seasoned ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes, but with the added crunch and bold flavor of Doritos chips.
The Doritos bring a unique texture and salty kick that takes the salad to a whole new level. A creamy dressing (often a mix of ranch and salsa) ties everything together, making each bite satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this salad is sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love It
- Crispy Crunch: The Doritos chips add an irresistible crunch that makes each bite exciting. The texture contrasts with the other ingredients is just perfect!
- Bold Flavors: With seasoned ground beef, tangy cheese, and a creamy dressing, the flavor profile is rich and savory, making it a satisfying meal.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a flavorful meal in a hurry.
- Customizable: You can tweak the recipe based on your preferences. Add more veggies, switch up the protein, or adjust the dressing — it’s up to you!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a party, this salad is always a crowd favorite. It’s easy to make in large batches and always goes quickly!
Ingredient List
For the Salad:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 6 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups Doritos (crushed)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup salsa (mild or medium, depending on your preference)
Ingredient Notes
- Ground Beef: I always use lean ground beef for this recipe, but feel free to swap it out for ground turkey if you want a leaner version. It still tastes amazing!
- Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning, but homemade seasoning gives it an extra kick. I like to mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika for a more custom flavor.
- Doritos: Don’t skip the Doritos! They’re what make this salad truly special. I prefer the classic Nacho Cheese flavor, but you could try a different flavor for a fun twist.
- Ranch Dressing: I usually go for a creamy ranch, but a light version works just as well if you want to cut down on the calories.
- Salsa: I recommend using a smooth salsa for the dressing to keep the texture nice and creamy. If you love extra spice, try adding some hot sauce to the mix!
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large Skillet: You’ll need this to cook the ground beef. A non-stick skillet is my go-to for easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Salad Bowl: For mixing all your ingredients and tossing the salad. I love using a large glass bowl so I can see everything as it’s mixed.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for getting the right amount of taco seasoning, dressing, and salsa.
- Can Opener: If you’re using pre-made salsa in a can, a can opener is a must-have! I have a trusty automatic can opener that makes it so much easier.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping the tomatoes and red onion. A sharp knife will make the job quicker and safer (and I’m all about efficiency in the kitchen).
- Grater: For shredding the cheese. I usually go for a box grater because it’s quick and gets the cheese just right, but a food processor works too if you’re in a hurry.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet on medium-high heat and let it warm up for about 2 minutes.
- Add the Ground Beef: Once the skillet is hot, add the ground beef (or turkey if you’re using that). Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally.
- Season the Beef: After about 5 minutes, when the beef starts to brown, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Follow the packet instructions for adding water (usually about 1/4 cup). Stir it all together so the seasoning evenly coats the beef.
- Let it Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the beef simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together. Once the beef is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
Pro Tip: If you’re using ground turkey, it tends to release more liquid, so you may want to drain some of the excess fat before adding the seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
- Shred the Lettuce: While the beef is cooking, wash and dry the lettuce. Stack the leaves, then slice them into bite-sized strips. Toss the shredded lettuce into a large salad bowl.
- Chop the Veggies: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and dice the red onion. Add these to the salad bowl with the lettuce.
- Grate the Cheese: Using a box grater or food processor, grate both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing and salsa. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Taste & Adjust: Give the dressing a quick taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a little extra salsa or some hot sauce to kick it up a notch!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add the Beef: Now that your beef is ready, add it directly on top of the lettuce and veggies. Don’t mix it just yet — let the beef sit on top for a moment.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef. This creates a nice layer that will melt slightly when you mix everything together.
- Toss the Salad: Carefully toss the ingredients in the bowl, making sure the beef, cheese, veggies, and lettuce are well distributed.
Step 5: Add the Doritos and Dressing
- Crush the Doritos: Open the Doritos bag and crush the chips slightly with your hands — just enough to break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Don’t crush them too fine; you want that satisfying crunch in every bite!
- Top the Salad: Sprinkle the crushed Doritos over the salad. Then, drizzle the creamy dressing mixture on top.
- Give It One Last Toss: Gently toss the salad again to coat the Doritos and the salad evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the chips too much — keep some of that crunch!
Pro Tip: Add the Doritos last so they stay crunchy and don’t get soggy from the dressing. Only mix them in just before serving!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best served right away, while the Doritos are still crisp. Grab some plates or bowls, and serve it up!
- Optional Garnish: If you’re feeling fancy, you can top the salad with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra touch of flavor.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy this delicious, crunchy Doritos taco salad! It’s the perfect balance of flavors, and trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe.

Tips and Tricks for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Be careful not to overcook the ground beef. Once it’s browned and fully cooked through, remove it from the heat. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Use Fresh Lettuce: For the best crunch, use fresh, crisp lettuce. Romaine is a great option because it holds up well and adds an extra crunch.
- Control the Crunch: Add the Doritos right before serving to keep them crispy. If you plan on leftovers, you can keep the chips separate and add them later to maintain their crunch.
- Mix the Dressing Separately: For a smoother dressing, mix the ranch and salsa separately before adding it to the salad. This ensures it’s evenly distributed.
- Customize the Seasoning: If you like it spicy, add some chili flakes or jalapeños to the beef for an extra kick. A little heat can make all the difference!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even ground pork for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try seasoned black beans or lentils as the base.
- Cheese: Use any cheese you love! Feta, queso fresco, or pepper jack can offer a nice twist to the traditional cheddar and Monterey Jack combo.
- Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have taco seasoning, use a mix of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt for homemade seasoning.
- Dressing: If you’re not a fan of ranch, you can use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a creamy avocado dressing. A cilantro-lime dressing would also pair beautifully!
- Vegetables: Add in other veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for extra texture and flavor.
- Doritos: While classic Nacho Cheese is the go-to, try using Cool Ranch Doritos or even Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos for a unique twist. Or, if you prefer a healthier option, use baked tortilla chips.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Sour Cream: I love adding a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy, tangy contrast that balances the flavors of the salad. You can even add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra pop!
- Pair with Guacamole: If you’re a guacamole lover, this salad pairs perfectly with a side of creamy guac. The freshness of the avocado complements the richness of the taco beef and dressing.
- Serve with a Cold Drink: A chilled iced tea or lemonade goes perfectly with this salad. The cool, refreshing drink helps balance out the spiciness if you’ve added a little heat to the mix.
- Tacos on the Side: For a fun twist, serve the salad alongside soft or hard shell tacos. You get the best of both worlds — a hearty salad and your favorite taco filling.
- Add a Fruit Salad: To lighten up the meal, serve this salad with a fresh fruit salad. The sweetness of the fruit contrasts nicely with the savory taco flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store Leftovers in an Airtight Container: Keep any leftover Doritos Taco Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep the Doritos separate to preserve their crunch.
- Reheat the Beef: If you want to reheat the beef, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Freshen Up the Salad: When serving leftovers, I recommend adding fresh lettuce and extra Doritos for that crunchy texture. This will give the salad a fresh, vibrant feel again!
- Avoid Freezing: This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the texture of the fresh veggies and chips. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Doritos Taco Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef, chop the veggies, and even mix the dressing a day ahead. Just keep the Doritos separate and add them right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Can I use a different type of chips?
Yes! While Doritos are classic, you can switch them out for other chips. Try tortilla chips, Cool Ranch Doritos, or even flavored chips like spicy sweet chili for a fun twist.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or even a plant-based meat substitute. The rest of the salad stays the same, and it will still taste amazing!
What dressing can I use if I don’t like ranch?
If ranch isn’t your thing, try using sour cream, Greek yogurt, or an avocado-based dressing for a creamy, healthier option. You could also try a tangy vinaigrette for a lighter dressing.
How spicy is this salad?
The spice level is adjustable! The taco seasoning typically isn’t too spicy, but if you want some extra heat, feel free to add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy Doritos. It’s all up to your taste!
Can I serve this salad as a main dish?
Yes, this salad is hearty enough to serve as a main dish. It has protein, veggies, and all the delicious textures you want in a meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
If you try this Doritos taco salad or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any fun variations you’ve tried. Don’t forget to connect with me on social media (@tasiahub) for more tasty recipes and tips!

Doritos Taco Salad
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Salad Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can Opener
- Sharp Knife
- Grater
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade seasoning
- 6 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup red onion diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups Doritos crushed
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup salsa mild or medium depending on your preference
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet on medium-high heat and let it warm up for about 2 minutes.
- Add the Ground Beef: Once the skillet is hot, add the ground beef (or turkey if you’re using that). Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally.
- Season the Beef: After about 5 minutes, when the beef starts to brown, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Follow the packet instructions for adding water (usually about 1/4 cup). Stir it all together so the seasoning evenly coats the beef.
- Let it Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the beef simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together. Once the beef is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
- Pro Tip: If you’re using ground turkey, it tends to release more liquid, so you may want to drain some of the excess fat before adding the seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
- Shred the Lettuce: While the beef is cooking, wash and dry the lettuce. Stack the leaves, then slice them into bite-sized strips. Toss the shredded lettuce into a large salad bowl.
- Chop the Veggies: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and dice the red onion. Add these to the salad bowl with the lettuce.
- Grate the Cheese: Using a box grater or food processor, grate both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing and salsa. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Taste & Adjust: Give the dressing a quick taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a little extra salsa or some hot sauce to kick it up a notch!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add the Beef: Now that your beef is ready, add it directly on top of the lettuce and veggies. Don’t mix it just yet — let the beef sit on top for a moment.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef. This creates a nice layer that will melt slightly when you mix everything together.
- Toss the Salad: Carefully toss the ingredients in the bowl, making sure the beef, cheese, veggies, and lettuce are well distributed.
Step 5: Add the Doritos and Dressing
- Crush the Doritos: Open the Doritos bag and crush the chips slightly with your hands — just enough to break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Don’t crush them too fine; you want that satisfying crunch in every bite!
- Top the Salad: Sprinkle the crushed Doritos over the salad. Then, drizzle the creamy dressing mixture on top.
- Give It One Last Toss: Gently toss the salad again to coat the Doritos and the salad evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the chips too much — keep some of that crunch!
- Pro Tip: Add the Doritos last so they stay crunchy and don’t get soggy from the dressing. Only mix them in just before serving!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best served right away, while the Doritos are still crisp. Grab some plates or bowls, and serve it up!
- Optional Garnish: If you’re feeling fancy, you can top the salad with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving)
- Calories: ~450–500 kcal
- Protein: 20–25g
- Fat: 30–35g
- Carbohydrates: 25–30g
- Fiber: 3–5g
- Sugar: 4–6g
- Sodium: ~800–1000mg
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.