Taco Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Kosher salt 
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp. taco seasoning
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 2 c. vegetable oil
or more
- 2 corn tortillas
cut into 1/4" strips, 4"
- 2 heads romaine
chopped
- 2 1/2 c. halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 can black beans
drained, rinsed, 15-oz.
- 1 c. shredded cheddar
- 1/2 c. pico de gallo
- 1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 c. sour cream
Directions
- 1
In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef, breaking up into small pieces with a wooden spoon; season with salt and pepper. Add taco seasoning, tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- 2
Into another large skillet, pour oil to a depth of 1/2". Heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Fry tortilla strips until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; immediately season with salt.
- 3
In a large bowl, season lettuce with a pinch of salt. Add tomatoes, beans, and beef and toss to combine. Top with cheese, pico de gallo, cilantro, and tortilla strips. Dollop with sour cream.
Taco Salad
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Based on 10 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that's ready in a flash? This classic Taco Salad recipe brings all your favorite elements together for an unbeatable lunch or easy weeknight dinner.What makes this Taco Salad a standout is its perfect balance of textures and tastes. From savory ground beef to crisp romaine and homemade fried tortilla strips, every bite delivers that comforting, familiar taco experience you love.Imagine tender, seasoned ground beef mingling with vibrant cherry tomatoes, hearty black beans, and cool, crisp romaine lettuce. You'll find a delightful crunch from the freshly fried corn tortilla strips, all brought together with a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar, fresh pico de gallo, bright cilantro, and a dollop of creamy sour cream. It’s a complete meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to assemble, ready in just 35 minutes total.This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. While ground beef forms the savory core, you could easily swap in another ground meat if you prefer. Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your taste, or add more fresh toppings like jalapeños for a kick. For a heartier salad, consider extra beans or a different cheese.Perfect for a casual family dinner or a vibrant potluck contribution, this Taco Salad is a crowd-pleaser that needs no elaborate sides. Serve it fresh to enjoy the ultimate contrast of warm and cool, soft and crisp ingredients.