Mrs. D'S Taco Salad
A flavorful and crunchy taco salad featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, cheesy, and crispy chips, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or party dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chili beans in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Drain excess grease and set aside to cool.
- Wash and chop lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions.
- In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, green onions, grated Cheddar cheese, and cooled ground beef mixture.
- Crush Doritos and add to the salad.
- Drizzle Western dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for a crunchy, flavorful taco salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with taco seasoning or spices like cumin and chili powder. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based option for a lighter version. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less Western dressing or opt for a creamy dressing instead. Fresh cilantro or jalapeños can also be added for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this taco salad as a standalone dish or pair it with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. It also goes well with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a fruity margarita. For a fun twist, try serving it in taco shells or alongside a plate of Family Nachos for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover taco salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the Doritos crunchy, store them separately and add them just before serving. If reheating, warm the beef mixture gently in a skillet over low heat, but avoid reheating the salad components to maintain freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. D'S Taco Salad contains roughly 299 calories, with 18g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. At about 299 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chopped vegetables and cooked beef mixture in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad with the Doritos and dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch and freshness.
What can I use instead of Doritos?
If you're looking for a healthier option, try using baked tortilla chips or even homemade tortilla strips. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free chips or skip the chips altogether and serve the salad in a bowl with extra toppings.
Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or grilled vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also add extra beans or corn for texture and flavor, making it a satisfying meal without meat.
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).