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Easy Ground Beef Taco Salad (Classic Crunch)

A close-up view of a delicious taco salad featuring seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, tomatoes, and black olives over lettuce.

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Make this satisfying taco salad with seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing. It is a quick, family-friendly meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 head iceberg or romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup Catalina dressing (or homemade taco salad dressing)
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or Doritos (optional for crunch)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water according to the seasoning packet directions. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces. Remove from heat.
  3. In a very large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, and red onion.
  4. If using, add the crushed tortilla chips or Doritos to the salad mixture and toss gently.
  5. Add the seasoned ground beef to the salad mixture.
  6. Pour the Catalina dressing over the salad and toss everything together until lightly coated.
  7. Top the salad with the shredded cheddar cheese before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use low-fat cheese.
  • To make a layered taco salad, place the lettuce in the bottom of a serving dish, then layer the meat, cheese, tomatoes, and olives, topping with dressing and chips just before serving.
  • To make a quick homemade taco salad dressing, mix 1/2 cup Catalina dressing with 2 tablespoons of salsa.

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