Taco Salad with the Best Creamy Dressing

“This Easy Taco Salad Recipe is a flavorful and healthy dinner idea, featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, avocado, pico de gallo, and crunchy tortilla chips. Topped with the best creamy taco salad dressing, this dish is a delicious and satisfying meal for taco night! Perfect for meal prep, keto-friendly modifications, and quick 20-minute dinners, this Mexican-inspired salad is packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Serve it in a crispy tortilla bowl or over romaine for a low-carb option. Try this easy homemade taco salad for a family-friendly, gluten-free meal!”

This fresh and flavorful Taco Salad is loaded with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, pico de gallo, crunchy tortilla chips, and shredded cheese, all tossed with a zesty homemade Taco Salad Dressing. It’s the perfect quick and easy dinner that’s packed with Tex-Mex flavors!

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Ingredients

For the Taco Salad:

• 4 tortilla taco salad bowls (optional)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
• 3 Tbsp taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 medium head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 1 cup pico de gallo (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)

For the Taco Salad Dressing:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tortilla Bowls (If Using)

If you’re making crispy tortilla bowls, bake them according to package instructions or until golden and crispy. Let them cool while you prepare the salad.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink.
2. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water.
3. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and garlic powder. Refrigerate the dressing while you prepare the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Divide the chopped lettuce among serving bowls (serves 6 as a side or 4 as a main dish).
2. Spoon the cooked ground beef over the lettuce.
3. Add avocado slices, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, tortilla strips, and chopped cilantro.
4. Drizzle with the creamy taco salad dressing and serve with lime wedges for extra zest.

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Tips

• Make it crispy: If you love crunchy taco salads, use a crispy tortilla bowl or serve with extra tortilla strips.
• Let the beef cool slightly: Adding hot beef directly to the salad can cause the lettuce to wilt. Let it cool for a few minutes before assembling.
• Adjust seasoning: If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the beef.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a vegetarian version.
• Dressing swaps: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use ranch dressing with taco seasoning for a twist.
• Cheese choices: Try cotija, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese instead of the Mexican blend.
• Low-carb version: Skip the tortilla chips and serve over chopped romaine for a keto-friendly taco salad.

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FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and dressing in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

How long does the dressing last?
Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve in crispy tortilla bowls for a fun and edible presentation.
• Pair with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or grilled corn for a complete meal.
• Add a scoop of guacamole and extra salsa for even more flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh & Flavorful: A perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and zesty flavors.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with protein, fresh veggies, and healthy fats from avocado.

This Taco Salad with the Best Dressing is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors. Try it tonight and enjoy a fresh take on taco night! 🌮🥗