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taco salad recipe

Ultimate Taco Salad Recipe (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

This ultimate taco salad recipe combines all your favorite taco flavors in a fresh, satisfying bowl. Seasoned ground beef, crisp romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cheese, and avocado topped with a creamy southwestern dressing and crunchy tortilla chips. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s healthier than traditional tacos while being just as delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Taco Meat:

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup water

Taco Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Salad:

  • 8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup black beans, drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1 large avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
  • 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
  • Lime wedges

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin

Instructions

  • Make taco seasoning: Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, and salt in a small bowl.
  • Cook beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook 5-6 minutes, breaking up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Season meat: Add taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir well and simmer 2-3 minutes until liquid reduces. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Prep vegetables: Chop lettuce, halve tomatoes, drain beans and corn, dice onion and avocado, and chop cilantro.
  • Make dressing: Whisk together sour cream, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Assemble: Divide lettuce among bowls. Top with seasoned beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, onion, avocado, and cilantro. Add crushed chips just before serving. Drizzle with dressing and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Cook beef up to 3 days ahead. Store all components separately and assemble fresh.
  • Protein swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or shredded chicken work great. For vegetarian, use extra beans or plant-based meat.
  • Lighter version: Use 93% lean beef, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduce or skip cheese and chips.
  • Chips: Add at the last second to prevent sogginess. Keep separate for meal prep.
  • Dressing variations: Try Catalina, ranch, or cilantro-lime vinaigrette.
  • Serving size: Recipe serves 4 as a main dish. Double for meal prep.
  • Storage: Store components separately for 3-4 days. Assembled salad doesn’t keep well.
  • Author: Emy Hayer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free