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The Ultimate Taco Salad Recipe: Classic, Healthy & Doritos Variations Included

A vibrant, close-up view of a delicious taco salad featuring seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips.
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Make this family favorite taco salad that combines seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, cheese, and crunchy toppings. This recipe is quick, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or Doritos (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Catalina dressing or salsa (for dressing)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the amount of water specified on the seasoning packet. Simmer according to package directions until the sauce thickens. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, and red onion.
  4. If making the classic version, toss the vegetables with half of the Catalina dressing. If making the Doritos Taco Salad, reserve the dressing for topping.
  5. Layer the seasoned ground beef over the vegetable mixture.
  6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  7. If using Catalina dressing, drizzle it over the top. If using the Doritos variation, layer crushed Doritos over the cheese, then add a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of dressing.
  8. Serve immediately for the best crunch.

Notes

  • For a healthy taco salad, skip the Doritos and use baked tortilla strips or skip the chips entirely.
  • You can prepare the taco meat ahead of time for a quick 20 minute taco salad dinner.
  • For a layered taco salad bowl presentation, arrange ingredients in distinct layers in a clear bowl.
  • If you prefer a lighter dressing, mix 1/4 cup salsa with 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt for a creamy, lower-fat option.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mistyplate.com/taco-salad-recipe-easy-quick-doritos/