This quick and easy taco salad is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle. Loaded with fresh veggies and seasoned beef, it’s a tasty meal the whole family will enjoy.
Prep Time35 min
Cook Time20 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Cooking Advice
Use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier option.
Warm the taco seasoning in a little water before mixing to enhance its flavor.
Add crunchy toppings like tortilla strips or nuts for extra texture.
Ingredients
0/12
Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
Perfect for busy days when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors, making each bite satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
Step 1
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks, and keep going until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 10 minutes. Drain off any extra grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let it come to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce thickens, around 10 minutes.
Step 2
While the beef is cooking, get your toppings ready by chopping the onion and lettuce, halving the cherry tomatoes, and grating the cheddar cheese. Arrange the onion, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, black olives, salsa, jalapeño peppers, sour cream, and corn chips in separate bowls.
Step 3
Once everything is set, transfer the seasoned beef to a serving bowl. Then, let everyone build their own salad by mixing and matching the toppings to their liking.
225
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Advice
Serve this salad with a side of warm corn tortillas or chips for added crunch. It also pairs well with a light salsa or guacamole to bring more zest. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens the flavors beautifully.
How To Freeze This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep any crunchy toppings separate to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat, give the salad a quick toss to refresh the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and can be cooked the same way.
How do I make this salad vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with cooked beans or a meatless crumble and use vegetarian taco seasoning.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the beef and chop the toppings in advance, but assemble just before serving to keep the chips crunchy.
What can I use instead of corn chips?
Tortilla chips or crushed baked pita chips are great alternatives.
Is it possible to make this less spicy?
Yes, omit the jalapeño peppers and choose mild salsa to reduce heat.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep the beef and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days; add chips fresh when serving.
Can I freeze the cooked beef mixture?
Yes, freeze the cooked, seasoned beef in an airtight container for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
What other toppings can I add?
Avocado slices, corn kernels, or chopped cilantro are tasty additions.
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