1. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Season the Beef:
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water to the beef. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
- Set Aside:
- Remove the seasoned beef from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
- Shred the Lettuce:
- While the beef is cooling, shred the lettuce and place it in a large serving bowl.
- Add Vegetables:
- Top the lettuce with cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, black beans, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. If using black olives or jalapeño slices, add them at this stage as well.
3. Make the Dressing:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, salsa, lime juice, and ranch dressing (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a little water or more lime juice if needed.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- Add the Beef:
- Add the slightly cooled ground beef on top of the salad ingredients.
- Add the Doritos:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the lightly crushed Doritos over the salad. This ensures they remain crispy.
- Toss with Dressing:
- Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. Alternatively, you can serve the dressing on the side so everyone can add their desired amount.
5. Serve:
- Plate and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while the Doritos are still crunchy. This salad can be a meal on its own or paired with some additional sides like Mexican rice or refried beans.
Conclusion
Doritos Taco Salad is a crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors and satisfying crunch. The combination of seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and cheesy Doritos makes every bite exciting. The homemade dressing adds a creamy, tangy element that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is sure to be a hit!