Aunt Jeanettes Taco Salad
A flavorful taco salad combining fresh lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheeses, seasoned hamburger, crunchy Doritos, and tangy Catalina dressing, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up lettuce and tomatoes.
- Cook hamburger and drain excess fat.
- Let the cooked hamburger cool slightly, then add it to the lettuce and cheese.
- Just before serving, add Catalina dressing and crushed Doritos, then toss and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a blend of spices like cumin and chili powder while cooking the hamburger. You can substitute the Catalina dressing with a creamy ranch or a homemade vinaigrette if desired. For a healthier option, swap in Greek yogurt for sour cream in any toppings. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add in some chopped bell peppers or olives.
Serving Suggestions
This taco salad is best served immediately, topped with crushed Doritos for a satisfying crunch. Pair it with a side of Frijoles Rancheros (Aka Borracho Beans) for a complete meal. It also works well as a potluck dish, alongside other Mexican recipes like Layered Tostado Dip or Jose Supreme Breakfast Burrito.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the Doritos separate until ready to serve to maintain their crunch. If reheating the hamburger mixture, do so on the stove over low heat until warmed through, then combine with fresh ingredients just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Jeanettes Taco Salad contains roughly 899 calories, with 51g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (102% of the Daily Value), calcium (100% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1653mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this taco salad in advance?
While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving. This ensures that the lettuce stays crisp and the Doritos maintain their crunch. You can pre-cut the vegetables and brown the meat a day ahead, but add the dressing and chips right before serving.
What can I use instead of hamburger?
If you're looking for a different protein, ground turkey or shredded chicken can be great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils seasoned with taco spices. This not only adds flavor but also makes the salad filling and nutritious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the hamburger as it cooks. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the salad just before serving, or use a spicier dressing if you prefer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).