The Ultimate Dorito Taco Salad

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The Ultimate Dorito Taco Salad

Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 10 mins | Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (or sub for chicken/shrimp as you suggested)

  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning

  • ½ cup Water

  • 1 cup Fresh Lettuce (chopped)

  • 1 Red Bell Pepper (chopped)

  • 1 Green Bell Pepper (chopped)

  • 1 Tomato (sliced or diced)

  • ½ cup Green Onions (chopped)

  • ½ cup Black Olives (halved)

  • 1 can Pinto Beans (rinsed and dried)

  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

  • 1 cup Nacho Cheese Doritos (crushed)

  • 10 oz Catalina Salad Dressing

  • Optional: Sour cream or guacamole for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain the excess fat.

  2. Season: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the liquid has reduced. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly (so it doesn’t wilt the lettuce immediately!).

  3. The Base: In a large salad bowl, toss together the lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, onions, olives, beans, and cheese.

  4. Combine: Add the seasoned beef to the bowl and toss slowly to distribute the flavors.

  5. The Crunch: Just before serving, top with the crushed Doritos.

  6. Dress it up: Drizzle with the Catalina dressing and add dollops of sour cream or guacamole as desired.

Helpful Tips for your Next Potluck

  • The “Soggy” Fix: If you are taking this to a party, keep the crushed Doritos and the Catalina dressing in separate containers. Mix them in at the very last second so the chips stay perfectly crunchy!

  • Texture Contrast: Since you love fresh, crispy lettuce, try using Romaine or Iceberg—they hold up better under the weight of the beef and beans than softer greens.

  • Heat Level: If you want a kick, swap the pinto beans for black beans with jalapeños or use “Spicy Sweet Chili” Doritos for a twist.

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