Name: Ground Beef Taco Salad Recipe
Prep time: PT-488998H31M29S
Cook time: PT-488998H31M29S
Total time: PT-488998H31M29S
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 6 cups lettuce, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup black beans; 1/2 cup corn; 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips; Salsa; Sour cream

Jump to Recipe·5 from 27 reviews

If you’re looking to bring some bold flavors and a little extra fun to your dinner table, look no further than this Ground Beef Taco Salad. Imagine a vibrant mix of crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes, crowned with savory, taco-seasoned beef and finished with creamy cheddar cheese and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips. Every bite is a celebration of textures and tastes, perfect for when you want a meal that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or seeking a quick crowd-pleaser, Ground Beef Taco Salad is a surefire favorite you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ground Beef Taco Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how this list of simple, familiar ingredients can come together to create something irresistible. Each item pulls its weight, adding color, crunch, or a spicy punch that makes the Ground Beef Taco Salad shine above the rest.

Ground Beef + Taco Seasoning: The heart of this dish, the beef gets wonderfully savory and a little spicy when cooked with classic taco seasoning.
Lettuce: Chopped lettuce gives this salad its crisp base and balances the rich flavors on top.
Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with juiciness, these add pops of sweetness and bright color in every forkful.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings a creamy, melty layer that ties the whole salad together.
Black Beans: Soft and earthy, these beans provide extra protein and some Tex-Mex flair.
Corn: Sweet corn kernels add a delightful chew and a burst of summery flavor.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: The secret to that unbeatable crunch and a nod to everyone’s favorite taco night.
Dressing (Salsa + Sour Cream): Creamy, tangy, and a little zesty—just the drizzle to bring everything together.

How to Make Ground Beef Taco Salad

Step 1: Cook the Taco-Seasoned Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it starts browning, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Stir well, letting the flavors meld and the beef cook through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fragrant and beautifully coated in deep, savory spices.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

While your beef is cooling slightly, grab a large bowl (or individual salad bowls) and pile in the chopped lettuce. This creates a bed that keeps everything crisp and fresh, ready to catch all that deliciousness coming next.

Step 3: Add the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes

Scatter the black beans, sweet corn, and halved cherry tomatoes over the lettuce. Take a moment to appreciate the rainbow of colors—these ingredients bring not just taste, but also visual excitement to your Ground Beef Taco Salad.

Step 4: Top with Beef, Cheese, and Tortilla Chips

Spoon the warm, taco-seasoned ground beef over your salad base. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese across the top—the residual heat will just start to melt it. Finally, finish with a cascade of crushed tortilla chips for that signature crunch everyone loves.

Step 5: Drizzle with Salsa and Sour Cream Dressing

Stir together your favorite salsa and sour cream for a quick, creamy dressing. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving for a flavor-packed finish that brings the entire dish together in the most mouthwatering way.

How to Serve Ground Beef Taco Salad

Garnishes

The fun is in the finishing touches! Try fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, avocado slices, or even a squeeze of lime for brightness. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of extra cheese can never go amiss when serving your Ground Beef Taco Salad.

Side Dishes

This salad is filling, but if you’re looking for something extra, pair it with warm flour tortillas and guacamole, or keep it light with a bowl of spicy black bean soup. For a playful family meal, offer mini bowls of extra chips, salsa, or Mexican street corn on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your Ground Beef Taco Salad a twist by serving it in a hollowed-out bell pepper or tortilla bowl for a show-stopping presentation. You can also set out all the toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their perfect bowl—kids and adults alike will love customizing their creations!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep everything fresh, store the meat, veggies, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, your lettuce and chips won’t get soggy, and you can assemble a fresh Ground Beef Taco Salad anytime you want.

Freezing

While you’ll want to steer clear of freezing the salad components, the cooked, seasoned ground beef freezes beautifully. Just let it cool, portion it into freezer bags, and stash it away. When you’re ready for another round of Ground Beef Taco Salad, you’ll be halfway there already!

Reheating

Gently rewarm the beef in a skillet or microwave until hot. Assemble your salad with fresh greens and toppings, and add the hot beef right before serving. This keeps that wonderful warmth in every bite without sacrificing crunch.

FAQs

Can I use another type of meat in this salad?

Absolutely! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian meat substitute. The beauty of Ground Beef Taco Salad is how easily you can make it fit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Is this recipe spicy?

As written, the salad has a mild kick from the taco seasoning and salsa, but you can make it spicier with jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or using a hot taco seasoning mix.

How long does the assembled salad last in the fridge?

When assembled, it’s best enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers, try to keep wet ingredients separate and eat within a day for the freshest texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of sour cream in the dressing?

If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt makes a fine substitute for sour cream in the salsa dressing.

Can I make this salad ahead for lunches?

Definitely! Prep your ingredients and store them in separate containers, adding dressing and chips just before serving each day to keep everything fresh and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Ground Beef Taco Salad enough—it’s quick, colorful, adaptable, and packed with flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more. If you love meals that turn ordinary nights into little celebrations, give this one a try and see why it’s an instant favorite!