Description
This Loaded Taco Salad is a fiesta of flavors in one bowl! Featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, crunchy Nacho Doritos, and a sweet and tangy Catalina dressing, this salad is anything but ordinary. It’s quick, satisfying, and full of Tex-Mex flair—perfect for lunch, dinner, or a fun potluck side.
Who is This Recipe For?
This easy taco salad is ideal for:
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Busy families needing a 30-minute dinner
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Meal preppers wanting a fresh lunch option
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Fans of Tex-Mex and taco night
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Party hosts looking for a crowd-pleasing side
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Picky eaters—yes, even kids love this dish thanks to the Doritos and cheese!
Why It’s Great
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ No baking required
✅ Customizable with your favorite veggies and protein
✅ Budget-friendly and uses pantry staples
✅ Great for parties, BBQs, or Taco Tuesday
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 pound ground beef
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1 packet taco seasoning
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½ cup water
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1 cup fresh lettuce, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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½ cup black olives, sliced in half
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1 cup canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
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1 medium tomato, sliced or diced
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½ cup green onions, chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
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1 cup Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed
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10 ounces Catalina salad dressing
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Sour cream, optional for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Large mixing bowl
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes, then let it cool.
2. Prep the Salad
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, red and green bell peppers, black olives, pinto beans, tomatoes, green onions, and shredded cheese. Toss gently to mix.
3. Add Crunch and Flavor
Right before serving, crush the Doritos and sprinkle over the top. Drizzle with Catalina dressing and garnish with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
4. Serve Fresh
This salad is best served immediately while the Doritos are still crispy. Enjoy!
Storage Tips
Refrigerator:
Store the undressed salad and meat separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Combine just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Freezer:
This recipe is not freezer-friendly due to the fresh vegetables and chips.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter alternative.
What’s a good substitute for Catalina dressing?
You can use French dressing, Ranch, or a zesty vinaigrette instead.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the meat and add extra beans, grilled tofu, or a meat substitute like Beyond Beef.
Can I make this in advance?
You can prep the beef and veggies in advance, but wait to add the Doritos and dressing until just before serving.
Do I have to use Doritos?
No, you can use tortilla chips, Fritos, or even baked chips if you prefer.
Conclusion
This Loaded Taco Salad with Doritos and Catalina Dressing is a fun, flavorful twist on classic taco night. With layers of crunch, color, and spice, it’s a guaranteed hit at any table—from family dinners to potlucks and parties. Quick, easy, and customizable, this salad will become one of your go-to recipes in no time!
