Okay, friends, let’s talk about this.taco saladWhat is taco salad? The one my family begs for, the one that disappears at potlucks faster than you can say “guacamole” Is there a way to save my sanity on busy weeknights? Think of it as a deconstructed taco, but way more fun and incredibly customizable. Is this a bowl of happiness? Is it easier than making tacos?
What is Taco Salad?
So, what exactly *is* taco salad? Well, imagine all the deliciousness of a taco – the seasoned ground beef, the crisp lettuce, the juicy tomatoes, the creamy cheese, the tangy salsa – all piled high in a big bowl. Think of it as a taco filling party in a bowl. It’s essentially a deconstructed taco, often served with crushed tortilla chips or a fried tortilla shell for that satisfying crunch. It’s ridiculously easy to customize to your liking, so even the pickiest eaters will find something to love. I swear, even my daughter who dislikes almost anything green, asks for seconds!
Why do I love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to love this movie?taco saladWhat are some of the best recipes for a delicious meal? What are some of the best ground beef recipes? Dreamy dressing that ties everything together. What I love about this, though, is how simple it is to make. I’m short on time and energy but still want a good night. Is it gonna be ok? What is the best meal you have ever had? Is it also incredibly cost-effective? How do I feed a crowd with this recipe? What’s the best thing about a one-bowl wonder? What makes a taco salad different from other salads? I use a secret ingredient in my ground beef seasoning blend (more on that later). Second, I make my own creamy taco dressing, which is so much better than anything you can buy in the store. I’m a big believer in the power of fresh, high-quality ingredients. What makes a difference in flavor and texture? What is a salad dip? I made this salad with ground turkey for healthier option and no one could tell! Is it safe to eat more calories?
How do I make Taco Salad?
Quick Overview
Making this taco saladWhat is the best way to brown ground beef and season it with a homemade spice blend? What’s the best way to make a creamy Salad Dressing? What is the secret of lettuce? Layering ingredients strategically to prevent soggy lettuce. I will show you the way! Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll be making again and again.
Ingredients
For the Seasoned Ground Beef:
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 packet taco seasoning, or:
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (my secret ingredient!)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1/4 cup water
For the Salad:
* 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite) or 1 tbsp. churro cheese
* 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
* 1 avocado, diced
For the Creamy Taco Dressing:
* 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option) * One cup of yoghurt.
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup salsa
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with the spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. I always use a paper towel to soak up extra grease, that way the salad doesn’t get oily.
Step 2: Season the Ground Beef
Add the taco seasoning (or your homemade spice blend) and water to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the beef is nicely cooked. I promise you that the smell alone will make your mouth water.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Taco Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, salsa, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Salad
In a large bowl, layer the romaine lettuce, seasoned ground beef, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cheddar cheese, black olives, and avocado. Drizzle with the creamy taco dressing and toss gently to combine. I find its better to layer it like that instead of mixing everything all together because lettuce sometimes gets soggy very fast.
Step 5: Add the Crunch
Just before serving, crush tortilla chips or Doritos over the top of the tortillas.taco salad. This adds a satisfying crunch that really takes it to the next level. Can you use a fried tortilla shell for serving? I actually ran out of tortilla chips so I crushed some potato chips and ate them all. I can’t remember what I did, but I had a good time. Is there a recipe for this beer that was really good?
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and satisfying dessert.taco salad! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or even casual get-together with friends. I sometimes add a fried egg on top, it actually taste really good.
What to Serve It With
This taco salad is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions. For a casual dinner, serve it with a side of Mexican rice and beans. For a potluck, pair it with guacamole and chips, salsa, and a pitcher of margaritas. I had a party and made it with a taco bar for everyone to customize their own taco salad, it was fun!
For Breakfast: Believe it or not, a small bowl of taco salad makes a surprisingly good breakfast! Serve it with a fried egg on top for extra protein.
For Brunch: Set up a taco salad bar with a variety of toppings and dressings. It’s a fun and interactive way to feed a crowd.
As Dessert: Okay, maybe not for dessert itself, but you *could* serve it alongside a sweet treat like churros or Mexican chocolate brownies.
For Cozy Snacks: Make it a hearty snack. Taco salad is great with a glass of Horchata.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Taco Salad
Want to take your taco salad to the next level? Here are my top tips for perfection:
Beef Selection: Use ground beef (80/20) for maximum flavor. The small amount of extra fat really makes a difference.
Spice is Nice: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices in your taco seasoning blend. Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder are a must, but you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some oregano for extra depth. I tested my beef seasoning with some cinnamon and nutmeg and it was actually good so try to experiment!
Chop it Up: Chop the romaine lettuce into small pieces. This makes it easier to eat and prevents the salad from being too bulky. I like to use a salad chopper for this.
Layer Like a Pro: Layer the ingredients strategically to prevent soggy lettuce. Start with the lettuce on the bottom, then add the ground beef, tomatoes, red onion, cheese, olives, and avocado. Drizzle the dressing over the top just before serving. It really helps.
Be Creative with Crunch: Get creative with your crunch! Tortilla chips are classic, but you can also use Doritos, Fritos, or even crumbled taco shells. One time I ran out of tortilla chips so I used crushed potato chips instead and it was a success.
Try Different Dressings: While my creamy taco dressing is a personal favorite, don’t be afraid to experiment with other dressings. Ranch dressing, salsa ranch dressing, or even a simple vinaigrette would all be delicious.
Temperature Check: Use cold veggies and slightly warm beef. That’s the best combination, trust me.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t advice on storing it in room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce may become a little soggy over time, so it’s best to eat it as soon as possible. Store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this taco salad, as the lettuce and other veggies will become very soggy when thawed.
Glaze Timing Advice: N/A
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my ultimate taco salad recipe! It’s a family favorite for a reason: it’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and totally customizable. This is the kind of dish that brings people together, and I can’t wait for you to share it with your loved ones. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my seven-layer dip or my homemade guacamole. Both are equally delicious and perfect for parties or gatherings.
Happy cooking, friends! I hope this becomes a staple in your house like it is in mine. Let me know in the comments how yours turns out, and feel free to share any variations you try. I love hearing your ideas! Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!
Taco Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef Lean ground beef
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning
- 1 head Iceberg Lettuce Shredded
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes
- 0.5 cup Black Olives Sliced
- 0.5 cup Red Onion Diced
- 1 cup Catalina Dressing
- 1 bag Tortilla Chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and add 0.25 cup of water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded lettuce, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, black olives, and red onion.
- Crush tortilla chips and add to the bowl. Drizzle with Catalina dressing.
- Toss to combine and serve immediately.
Notes
Featured Comments
“Impressed! Clear steps and super easy results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“New favorite here — spot on. crowd-pleaser was spot on.”
“Super easy and turned out amazing! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“This sweet treat was absolutely loved — the zingy really stands out. Thanks!”
“Made it tonight and wow — comforting! Will definitely make Taco Salad again.”
“Packed with flavor and so simple. Exactly what I wanted from Taco Salad.”
