Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Salad with Ground Beef is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit any taste. The combination of seasoned beef, fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings makes it a satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, and the best part is that it can be easily tailored to include your favorite taco toppings. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for busy nights.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
1/2 cup water
6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup salsa
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Lime wedges for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing until the beef is evenly coated. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Add the seasoned beef mixture on top of the salad.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crushed tortilla chips over the salad.
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and salsa together to create a creamy dressing.
Drizzle the sour cream and salsa mixture over the salad, then garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Toss everything together gently and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Vegetarian Taco Salad: Skip the meat and use black beans or kidney beans as a protein alternative.
Spicy Taco Salad: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef for an extra kick.
Taco Salad Bowl: Serve the salad in a crispy taco shell bowl for a fun and crunchy twist.
Mexican Rice: Add a scoop of Mexican rice as a base for your salad for a more filling meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy salad.
Reheating: If you have leftover beef, it can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. However, the salad components (lettuce, tomatoes, etc.) should be served fresh.

FAQs

Can I make taco salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components (seasoned beef, chopped veggies, and shredded cheese) ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce and chips crisp.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground beef if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian version of the salad.

What dressing is best for taco salad?

The most common dressing for taco salad is a sour cream and salsa mixture, but you can also use ranch dressing, a creamy cilantro dressing, or even a vinaigrette.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free tortilla chips and taco seasoning. You can also opt for gluten-free tortillas if you want to make homemade chips.

How can I make my taco salad spicier?

Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the beef mixture, or use a spicy salsa for the dressing to bring the heat.

Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to my taco salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like corn, avocado, bell peppers, or even cucumber to customize your salad.

Conclusion

Taco Salad with Ground Beef is an easy, flavorful, and customizable meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this salad is sure to be a hit. The combination of seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and crunchy tortilla chips creates a balanced and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, with endless variations to try, you can enjoy this dish over and over again without getting bored!