I think the answer to this is yes, at least for a certain understanding of D&D.can you use an engine that is not d&d to play d&d
I've used Rolemaster to play games that, in their basic tropes - both PCs and setting - were D&D-like. Though the action had a different feel from D&D, because of the different resolution mechanics.
I believe that Tunnels & Trolls could be used to play a game similar to something like B2 Keep on the Borderlands, though my personal T&T experience is pretty minimal.