Name: Taco Salad with Ground Beef
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 oz taco seasoning; 1.5 cups sour cream; 1 oz ranch dip mix; 1 large head iceberg lettuce; 2 cups grape tomatoes; 1 jalapeno; 1 red bell pepper; 15 oz kidney beans; 0.5 cups sliced black olives; 0.5 cups sweet corn; 2 cups crushed nacho cheese Doritos; 1 cup green onions; 1 cup cheddar cheese; 1 avocado; 1 cup Catalina dressing

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When I think of summer gatherings, the first dish that comes to mind is my delicious Taco Salad with Ground Beef. This vibrant salad brings together all the flavors of a classic taco, but in a refreshing, crisp bowl that’s perfect for hot days. I remember the first time I served it at a family picnic; everyone raved about how it was the best thing on the table. I had a mix of flavors and textures, from the crunch of the lettuce and chips to the creaminess of the ranch dressing and sour cream. It’s a dish that almost makes itself, and the best part? You can customize it to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you want to add more veggies or switch up the toppings, this salad is forgiving and versatile.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
520 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
28 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

Why This Taco Salad with Ground Beef Stands Out

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

The Taco Salad with Ground Beef is a guaranteed hit for gatherings. When I make it, I often double the recipe because it disappears so quickly! Its vibrant colors and variety of textures make it visually appealing, and who doesn’t love tacos? You can see everyone diving into the bowl for seconds, which is always a joy to witness.

Easy to Prepare

With simple steps and minimal cooking, this recipe makes things easy. The most time-consuming part is browning the ground beef, but even that doesn’t take long. Everything else is just chopping and mixing, so it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute get-togethers.

Customizable

One of the best parts about this salad is that you can tailor it to your taste. If you love spicy food, add more jalapenos. Prefer it milder? Skip them altogether! You can also experiment with dressings or toppings to find your perfect balance.

Fresh Flavors

The fresh ingredients in this salad really shine. The crisp lettuce, juicy grape tomatoes, and creamy avocado come together to create a refreshing dish that’s ideal for summer. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce.

Perfect for Leftovers

Leftovers? No problem! The Taco Salad with Ground Beef holds up surprisingly well. I often take leftovers for lunch, and it’s just as tasty the next day. Just keep the toppings separate, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even a summer barbecue, this salad fits right in. It’s satisfying enough for a main dish but light enough to be a great side. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!

What to Buy for Taco Salad with Ground Beef

When it comes to the ingredients for Taco Salad with Ground Beef, you want vibrant, fresh produce combined with hearty ground beef and bold seasonings. This combination brings together textures and flavors that are not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Here’s what you need to get started!

1 pound ground beef: The star protein that gives this salad its heartiness.
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning: Adds a blend of spices that bring authentic taco flavor.
1 1/2 cups sour cream: Provides a creamy texture and balances the spices.
1 (1 oz) packet ranch dip mix: Enhances the dressing with a tangy flavor.
1 large head iceberg lettuce chopped: Forms the crispy base for the salad.
2 cups grape tomatoes halved: Adds sweetness and juiciness.
1 jalapeno diced: For those who like a kick.
1 red bell pepper diced: Adds crunch and color.
15 ounce can kidney beans drained: Gives added protein and fiber.
½ cup sliced black olives drained: Offers a briny flavor that complements the dish.
½ cup sweet corn drained: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
2 cups crushed nacho cheese Doritos or corn chips: For that satisfying crunch.
1 cup green onions chopped: Adds a fresh, oniony bite.
1 cup cheddar cheese shredded: Melts beautifully into the salad.
1 avocado sliced: Creamy and rich, it elevates the salad.
1 cup Catalina dressing or more: Ties all the flavors together.

Putting Together Taco Salad with Ground Beef

Making the Taco Salad with Ground Beef is a fun and straightforward process. You’ll start by preparing your protein and then layer in all those fresh ingredients for a stunning presentation. Let’s get right into it!

Place a large skillet over medium heat; add the ground beef once hot. You want the skillet to be hot enough so that the meat sizzles as soon as it hits the pan.
Brown the meat and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon; drain any excess grease. You want the meat to be nicely browned, which should take about five to seven minutes, and make sure to remove any excess grease for a healthier dish.
Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/3 cup water. Simmer until the water is absorbed, then remove from heat. This will allow the spices to bloom and infuse the meat.
Mix the sour cream with the ranch dip mix in a small bowl and chill until ready to serve. It’s okay to do this step while the beef is cooking to save time.
Add the chopped lettuce to a large serving bowl. The lettuce should be crisp and fresh, giving the base a nice crunch.
Pour 1/2 cup Catalina dressing on top and toss to combine. This will ensure that the lettuce is coated well before adding the heartier ingredients.
Top with the taco meat, kidney beans, bell pepper, and sweet corn. Layering these ingredients creates a beautiful rainbow effect that’s appealing to the eye.
Next, pile on the crushed chips, tomatoes, green onions, olives, jalapeno, avocado slices, and cheese. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture, making every bite exciting.
Drizzle some of the ranch sour cream mixture and the remaining Catalina dressing. This is the finishing touch that ties all the flavors together.
Garnish with crushed chips and serve! Feel free to set out extra toppings for guests to customize their salads.

Things Worth Knowing

Be prepared ahead of time: Clean and chop the veggies, and drain and prepare the canned goods for the salad.
Drain and dry: Make sure you drain and dry your veggies well to prevent a watery salad.
Drain the grease: Always drain the grease from the ground beef before adding the seasoning. If it is excessively greasy, pat it with paper towels.
Keep veggies separate: Let guests choose what they like, making the salad more interactive.
Handling jalapenos: Wear disposable kitchen gloves when handling jalapenos to prevent the juice from getting into your eyes.

Variations to Try

There are so many ways to put your spin on the Taco Salad with Ground Beef. Here are some fun ideas to keep things interesting!

Spice it up: Add more diced jalapenos or switch to a spicy ranch dressing for an extra kick.
Go vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with black beans or quinoa for a meatless version.
Change the chips: Use nacho cheese chips, tortilla chips, or even pita chips for a different crunch factor.
Add fruits: Toss in some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Perfect Matches for Taco Salad with Ground Beef

Serving your Taco Salad with Ground Beef can be as varied as the salad itself! Here are some great ideas for pairing and occasions:

Perfect for summer BBQs: This salad makes an ideal side dish for grilled meats, bringing a refreshing crunch to the table.
Lunch option: Serve this salad in a larger bowl for a satisfying lunch that doesn’t weigh you down.
Picnics and potlucks: It’s easy to transport and always a hit among friends and family at gatherings.
Dressings on the side: For parties, consider serving dressings separately so guests can add their preferred amount.
Seasonal sides: Pair with corn on the cob or a fruit salad for a light and summery meal.
Leftovers for lunch: This salad holds up well for a day, making it great for next-day lunches.

FAQ

Yes, you can certainly prepare the Taco Salad with Ground Beef ahead of time! I recommend prepping the ingredients, such as chopping the veggies and cooking the ground beef. However, to maintain the freshness of the salad, keep the dressing and crunchy toppings like chips separate until you are ready to serve it. This will ensure everything remains crisp and doesn’t get soggy. You can assemble the salad in about 10 minutes when it’s time to eat!

Storing leftovers of your Taco Salad with Ground Beef is easy! Simply place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it. Keep the crunchy toppings and dressing separate to maintain their texture. The salad should last for up to three days in the fridge, but make sure to consume it within that timeframe for the best taste. When you’re ready to eat, just add the dressing and toppings back in.

Absolutely! One of the best things about the Taco Salad with Ground Beef is its versatility. You can switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or make it vegetarian by using black beans or quinoa. Additionally, feel free to add or omit any veggies according to your preference—like adding corn or avocado slices. The dressing can also be swapped out for your favorite vinaigrette or salsa!

When serving Taco Salad with Ground Beef, consider using a large bowl and allowing guests to customize their portions. Set out separate bowls for toppings like cheese, avocado, and crushed chips, and let everyone build their own salad. This not only makes it fun but also ensures that everyone gets exactly what they like. It’s also a great way to serve it at parties or gatherings!

Conclusion

The Taco Salad with Ground Beef truly is a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or even casual weeknight meals. I encourage you to try making this delicious salad and see how easily it becomes a favorite in your household. With its customizable options and ease of preparation, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and again!