Dinner

Easy Taco Salad Recipe

ByHugo Harnd January 5, 2026January 5, 2026

Introduction

This easy taco salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and crunchy tortilla strips, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal all in one bowl.

A white bowl filled with a layered taco salad starts with a base of fresh, light green lettuce leaves. On top, there is a generous pile of seasoned ground beef in brown, slightly crumbly texture. Diced red tomatoes mixed with finely chopped purple onions and green herbs cover the beef. Next to this is a pile of bright green diced avocado pieces. To the side, a small heap of shredded yellow and white cheese adds color, along with thin red tortilla strips. A dollop of smooth white sour cream sits near the avocado. In the bowl’s corner, a wedge of lime adds a pop of green. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, with a silver fork nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
3 Tbsp taco seasoning (or 1 packet, plus 1/2 cup water)
1 medium head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
1 cup diced tomatoes (or Pico de Gallo)
1/2 cup Mexican cheese blend (or to taste)
1/2 cup tortilla strips or chips
1/2 cup sour cream (or taco salad dressing)
1/4 cup cilantro
Toppings as desired: lime wedges, jalapeños, guacamole, salsa, olives

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains and the fat is released. Spoon out any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water, then cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool to lightly warm or room temperature.
Step 2: (Optional) Prepare taco salad dressing by mixing the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or measuring cup. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the salad to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Chop the iceberg lettuce and divide it into serving bowls (serves 6 as a side or 4 as a main dish). Top the lettuce with the cooked ground beef.
Step 4: Add the avocado slices, diced tomatoes, cheese blend, and tortilla strips or chips over the beef and lettuce. Garnish with cilantro and either a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of taco salad dressing. Serve with lime wedges and any additional desired toppings.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Use baked tortilla strips for a healthier crunch.
Fresh lime juice squeezed over the salad just before serving brightens up the flavors.
If preferred, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Storage

Store leftover taco salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Keep the dressed salad chilled and add crunchy toppings just before serving to prevent sogginess. Reheat the seasoned beef gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling if desired.

How to Serve

A white bowl-shaped tortilla with a slightly crispy, golden-brown edge forms the base of this dish. Inside, the first layer is finely shredded green lettuce spread evenly, topped by a layer of dark brown cooked ground beef. On top of the beef are fresh red tomato wedges and small chopped pieces of white and purple onion. Green avocado chunks and pale yellow shredded cheese are spread across the top. Dollops of white sour cream sauce and fresh green cilantro leaves finish the dish, adding contrast in color and texture. The bowl sits on a simple white plate against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with seasoned black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute to create a delicious vegetarian taco salad.

What can I use instead of taco seasoning?

If you don’t have store-bought taco seasoning, you can make your own using a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.