Taco Salad Recipe

This taco salad recipe is a quick, satisfying meal that combines bold Tex-Mex flavors with fresh, crisp ingredients. Seasoned ground beef, crunchy lettuce, creamy toppings, and tortilla chips come together to create a balanced dish that works perfectly for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings. It is easy to customize with your favorite toppings and dressings, making it a reliable go-to recipe for busy days or family-style serving.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 6 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup tortilla chips
• ½ cup salsa
• ½ cup sour cream
• Optional toppings such as olives, bell peppers, jalapeños, or red onion

Directions

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
• Stir in the black beans, if using, and remove from heat.
• Place the chopped lettuce into a large serving bowl or divide it among individual bowls.
• Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the lettuce.
• Top with tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, and any additional toppings of choice.
• Finish with tortilla chips, salsa, and sour cream just before serving.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Yield: 1 large taco salad or 8 individual servings