Unleash the Flavor Fusion: Doritos Kroger Collaboration Recipes for September
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds because September is bringing an explosion of flavor thanks to the exciting Doritos Kroger collaboration! This dynamic duo has teamed up to deliver innovative recipes that are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. If you’re a Doritos enthusiast or just looking to spice up your culinary repertoire, this is the collaboration you’ve been waiting for. We’re diving into a collection of mouthwatering recipes that incorporate Doritos in ways you’ve never imagined. Prepare to be amazed!
## Why Doritos and Kroger? A Match Made in Snack Heaven
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk about why this collaboration works so well. Doritos, with its bold flavors and undeniable crunch, brings excitement to any dish. Kroger, as a leading grocery retailer, provides the accessibility and variety of ingredients needed to bring these culinary creations to life. The combination is a win-win for food lovers who want to experiment with new flavors and create memorable meals without breaking the bank or spending hours searching for obscure ingredients. The partnership leverages the strengths of both brands, making it easy for shoppers to discover and recreate these innovative recipes at home.
## Recipe 1: Doritos Crusted Chicken Strips with Spicy Avocado Ranch
Forget boring breaded chicken! This recipe takes chicken strips to a whole new level by using crushed Doritos as a crispy and flavorful coating. The spicy avocado ranch adds a cool and creamy contrast, making this a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
* 2 cups Doritos (Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Nacho – your choice!), finely crushed
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Spicy Avocado Ranch:**
* 1 ripe avocado
* 1/2 cup buttermilk
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. **Set up the Breading Station:** Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, place the crushed Doritos.
3. **Bread the Chicken:** Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to adhere.
4. **Cook the Chicken:** You have two cooking options:
* **Baking:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and the Doritos coating is golden brown and crispy.
* **Air Frying:** Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and the Doritos coating is golden brown and crispy.
5. **Make the Spicy Avocado Ranch:** In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, jalapeno, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasonings to taste.
6. **Serve:** Serve the Doritos crusted chicken strips immediately with the spicy avocado ranch for dipping. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Doritos Flavor:** Experiment with different Doritos flavors to find your favorite combination. Spicy Nacho adds a kick, while Cool Ranch offers a refreshing twist.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of jalapeno in the avocado ranch to control the spice level. For a milder ranch, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno.
* **Baking vs. Air Frying:** Air frying will result in a crispier coating than baking. If baking, you can spray the chicken strips with cooking spray before baking to help them crisp up.
* **Make Ahead:** The avocado ranch can be made a few hours ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning.
## Recipe 2: Doritos Taco Salad
This isn’t your average taco salad! Crushed Doritos add a layer of unexpected crunch and flavor to this hearty and customizable meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun potluck dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1/2 cup water
* 1 head of lettuce, shredded
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup diced tomatoes
* 1/2 cup diced red onion
* 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup salsa
* 1 avocado, diced
* 1 bag Doritos (Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Nacho – your choice!), crushed
* Optional toppings: corn, beans, jalapenos, guacamole
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ground Meat:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Season the Meat:** Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
3. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl or individual bowls, layer the shredded lettuce, seasoned ground meat, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, sour cream, salsa, and avocado.
4. **Add the Doritos:** Top the salad with the crushed Doritos just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Meat Options:** You can use ground beef, ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even black beans as the protein in this salad.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the meat and add an extra can of black beans or pinto beans for a vegetarian-friendly version.
* **Cheese Choices:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
* **Dressing Options:** Instead of sour cream and salsa, you can use a creamy cilantro-lime dressing or a spicy ranch dressing.
* **Layering:** For a visually appealing salad, layer the ingredients in a clear glass bowl or trifle dish.
* **Customize Your Toppings:** Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings, such as corn, beans, jalapenos, guacamole, or pico de gallo.
## Recipe 3: Doritos Mac and Cheese Bites
Mac and cheese gets a serious upgrade with these bite-sized snacks. The creamy, cheesy filling is coated in crushed Doritos and baked to golden perfection. They’re perfect for parties, game day, or a fun afternoon snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) macaroni and cheese mix
* 1/4 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
* 1 bag Doritos (Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Nacho – your choice!), finely crushed
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* Vegetable oil, for frying (optional, for a crispier version)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Mac and Cheese:** Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain well.
2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** Return the macaroni to the pot. Add the cheese sauce mix, milk, and butter. Stir until the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) until melted.
3. **Chill the Mac and Cheese:** Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread it out into a thin layer and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
4. **Cut into Bites:** Once the mac and cheese is firm, use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch squares or circles).
5. **Set up the Breading Station:** Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the egg. In a third shallow dish, place the crushed Doritos.
6. **Bread the Bites:** Dredge each mac and cheese bite in the flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to adhere.
7. **Cook the Bites:** You have two cooking options:
* **Baking:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded mac and cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the Doritos coating is golden brown and crispy.
* **Frying (Optional):** Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the breaded mac and cheese bites into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8. **Serve:** Serve the Doritos mac and cheese bites immediately. They are best enjoyed warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cheese Options:** Experiment with different types of cheese in the mac and cheese, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or pepper jack.
* **Add-ins:** Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or jalapenos to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
* **Freezing:** You can freeze the breaded mac and cheese bites before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
* **Dipping Sauces:** Serve the mac and cheese bites with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
## Recipe 4: Doritos Crusted Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Who says Doritos are only for land-based creations? This recipe brings a surprising twist to classic fish tacos. The crispy Doritos crust adds a bold flavor and texture that complements the flaky fish and sweet mango salsa perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi), cut into 4-inch pieces
* 1 cup Doritos (Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Nacho – your choice!), finely crushed
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Corn or flour tortillas
**For the Mango Salsa:**
* 1 ripe mango, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely diced
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Fish:** Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
2. **Set up the Breading Station:** Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the egg. In a third shallow dish, place the crushed Doritos.
3. **Bread the Fish:** Dredge each fish fillet in the flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to adhere.
4. **Cook the Fish:** You have two cooking options:
* **Baking:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the Doritos coating is golden brown and crispy.
* **Pan-Frying:** Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded fish fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and the Doritos coating is golden brown and crispy.
5. **Make the Mango Salsa:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
7. **Assemble the Tacos:** Place a piece of Doritos crusted fish on each tortilla. Top with the mango salsa.
8. **Serve:** Serve the Doritos crusted fish tacos immediately. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Fish Options:** You can use any type of white fish for this recipe. Cod, tilapia, and mahi-mahi are all good choices.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of jalapeno in the mango salsa to control the spice level.
* **Toppings:** Add other toppings to the tacos, such as shredded cabbage, avocado slices, or a creamy chipotle sauce.
* **Grilling:** For a smoky flavor, you can grill the fish instead of baking or pan-frying.
## Recipe 5: Doritos Walking Taco Casserole
This casserole takes the classic walking taco to a whole new level of comfort food. It’s packed with flavor and easy to assemble, making it a perfect dish for potlucks, parties, or a cozy night in.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1/2 cup water
* 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
* 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
* 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 bag Doritos (Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Spicy Nacho – your choice!), crushed
* Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapenos, black olives
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ground Meat:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Season the Meat:** Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
3. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. **Assemble the Casserole:** In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the refried beans evenly across the bottom. Top with the seasoned ground meat, corn, and diced tomatoes and green chilies.
5. **Add Cheese and Doritos:** Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Then, sprinkle the crushed Doritos evenly over the cheese.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the Doritos are lightly browned.
7. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapenos, or black olives.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Meat Options:** You can use ground beef, ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles as the protein in this casserole.
* **Bean Options:** Use black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans instead of refried beans.
* **Spice Level:** Add a can of diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground meat for extra spice.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the meat and add an extra can of beans or vegetarian crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
## Beyond the Recipes: Getting Creative with Doritos
These recipes are just a starting point. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with other ways to incorporate Doritos into your cooking! Here are a few more ideas:
* **Doritos Crusted Pizza:** Use crushed Doritos as a topping for your homemade or store-bought pizza.
* **Doritos Bread Crumbs:** Substitute crushed Doritos for bread crumbs in any recipe that calls for them, such as meatballs, meatloaf, or chicken nuggets.
* **Doritos Taco Shells:** Fill Doritos bags with taco fillings for a fun and portable meal.
* **Doritos Snack Mix:** Add crushed Doritos to your favorite snack mix for extra flavor and crunch.
* **Doritos Dusted Popcorn:** Sprinkle crushed Doritos over freshly popped popcorn for a savory and addictive treat.
## Where to Find the Ingredients (Kroger Focus)
The best part about this collaboration is the ease of access to all the necessary ingredients. Kroger stores are stocked with a wide variety of Doritos flavors and all the fresh produce, meats, and dairy products you’ll need to create these delicious recipes. Look for special displays and promotions highlighting the Doritos Kroger collaboration throughout the store, especially in the chip aisle, meat department, and produce section. Don’t forget to check the Kroger website and app for exclusive deals and coupons on participating products.
## Final Thoughts: Embrace the Flavor Adventure
The Doritos Kroger collaboration is a celebration of flavor, creativity, and fun in the kitchen. These recipes are designed to be easy to follow and customizable to your own taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to experience a whole new world of Doritos-inspired deliciousness! This September, let Doritos and Kroger inspire you to create unforgettable meals and snacks that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking (and snacking)!