Dorito Taco Salad

 This classic, crowd-pleasing salad is loaded with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, shredded cheese, and crunchy Nacho Cheese Doritos. My Mom’s original recipe, it’s been a staple at potlucks and backyard gatherings my entire life—and it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear.

Perfect for summer cookouts, easy lunches, or a fun dinner, this salad is as delicious as it is easy to make.

Ingredients

• 1 large bag Nacho Cheese Doritos, lightly crushed (not fine crumbs)

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 1 head iceberg or romaine lettuce, shredded

• 6 medium tomatoes, chopped

• 1 red onion, diced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup Italian dressing

• 2 cups ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning packet.

2. Add Dressings

Pour the Italian dressing and ranch dressing into the skillet with the seasoned beef. Stir well and simmer for 3–5 minutes, until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Prep Toppings

While the meat cools, prepare the fresh ingredients:

• Shred the lettuce and place in a bowl.

• Chop tomatoes and place in a separate bowl.

• Dice the red onion and place in another bowl.

• Shred the cheese, if not pre-shredded.

4. Assemble & Serve

For a build-your-own bar:
Arrange bowls of lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cheese, crushed Doritos, and the slightly cooled meat mixture. Let guests layer their own plates.

For a pre-mixed salad (serve immediately):
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cheese, and meat mixture. Gently fold in crushed Doritos right before serving to keep them crunchy.

Tip:
If preparing ahead, store each component separately in the refrigerator. Combine just before eating to keep the Doritos crisp and the lettuce fresh.

Enjoy this crunchy, creamy, savory, and totally irresistible salad—the taste of summer in every bite!