Easy Ground Beef Taco Salad

Easy Ground Beef Taco Salad is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together seasoned beef, crunchy lettuce, fresh veggies, cheese, and your favorite toppings—all in one bowl. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This taco salad is a no-fuss meal that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s packed with protein and fresh ingredients, giving you the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to customize, making it ideal for picky eaters or dietary preferences. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.

ingredients

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

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Corn chips or tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Salsa or taco sauce
• Avocado or guacamole (optional)
• Green onions or red onions, chopped
• Black beans or corn (optional additions)

directions

this recipe

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in taco seasoning along with a splash of water and let it simmer until thickened. Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl or individual serving bowls, layer chopped lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and any optional add-ins like beans or corn.
4. Top with the seasoned ground beef.
5. Add crushed corn chips or tortilla chips for crunch.
6. Finish with sour cream, salsa, avocado, and any other desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately for best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with black beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles.
• Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Serve in a taco bowl or over rice for a burrito bowl twist.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier topping.

storage/reheating

Store the taco beef separately from the salad ingredients in airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before assembling your salad.
To maintain crunch, add chips and toppings like avocado or sour cream just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make taco salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, as long as your taco seasoning and chips are certified gluten-free.

What’s the best lettuce to use?

Romaine or iceberg works best for crunch and freshness.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely—ground chicken, turkey, or even shredded rotisserie chicken all work well.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Only add dressing, chips, and juicy toppings like salsa right before serving.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! Store each component in separate containers and assemble just before eating.

What dressings go well with taco salad?

Salsa, ranch, chipotle mayo, or a creamy cilantro lime dressing are all great choices.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! You can adjust the spice level to taste and let kids build their own bowls.

How can I make it low-carb?

Skip the chips and beans, and add extra avocado and protein.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, the beef should be warm while the rest of the ingredients are fresh and cool for contrast.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Beef Taco Salad is a flavorful, quick-to-make meal that’s as nourishing as it is tasty. Perfect for weeknight dinners, picnics, or casual parties, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With endless ways to customize it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

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