If there's one weeknight dinner I never get tired of, it's this beef taco salad with salsa ranch dressing. It's easy, flavorful, and customizable which is exactly what I need when I want dinner on the table fast. My family loves building their own taco salad with ground beef, and I love that it all comes together in 20 minutes.
This recipe is inspired by my favorite Tex-Mex restaurant in Dallas, where the salads are always piled high and never boring. But this homemade version is cheaper, faster, and just as crave-worthy, thanks to the creamy dressing and tasty toppings.
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Notes on Ingredients
- I prefer using lean ground beef (90/10) so there's less grease to drain. This ground beef salad is seasoned with my authentic taco seasoning, but you can use store-bought in a pinch.
- I like using iceberg or romaine lettuce for this salad because both stay crisp and crunchy, even with the warm taco-seasoned beef on top.
- My favorite salad dressing for taco salad is homemade salsa ranch dressing. But when I'm wanting a spicier dressing swap, I'll use my creamy jalapeno sauce.
Topping Ideas for Beef Taco Salad
In my opinion, the best part about this easy taco salad with ground beef is the toppings! This is where you can really get creative and make it your own! Here are some of my favorite additions that bring texture and flavor to every bite:
- Avocado - Creamy and rich, it balances the spice perfectly.
- Black beans or pinto beans - Add heartiness.
- Charred canned corn - For a sweet and smokey crunch.
- Sliced jalapenos - Pickled or fresh for a spicy kick.
- Shredded cheese - Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work.
- Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo - Brings brightness and freshness.
- Crushed tortilla chips - Crunchy and salty like built-in croutons!
- Cilantro and green onions - For a fresh, herby finish.
Serving Suggestions
This beef taco salad is filling enough to stand on its own, but I love rounding it out with a few sides and drinks.
Serve it alongside tortilla chips with guacamole, beef queso dip, or salsa for extra crunch and flavor. It's also a great match for Mexican street corn pasta salad or jalapeno popper potato salad.
For something cool and refreshing, try a frozen limeade margarita with a salty rim-it's the perfect finishing touch.
More Ground Beef Recipes
If you try this recipe or any recipe from Happy Honey Kitchen, please rate the recipe and leave a comment below! Enjoy!
Ground Beef Taco Salad with Salsa Ranch
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Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 Tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- lettuce romaine or iceberg
- Optional toppings: avocados, tomatoes, cheese, beans, etc.
Salsa Ranch Dressing
- 1 Ranch seasoning packet
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise or sour cream
- ⅔ cup milk
- ⅓ cup salsa
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 2 Tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
- Start by making the salsa ranch dressing. In a small bowl or shaker jar, combine all dressing ingredients and mix until smooth and well blended. Refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef and taco seasoning, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Meanwhile, in a separate skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and peppers for about 5 minutes, or until softened and slightly charred. Tip: To save on dishes, you can also cook the veggies in the same skillet after the beef is done-just remove the beef and set it aside before adding the onions and peppers.
- To assemble the taco salad, fill individual bowls with lettuce, then top with the seasoned beef, sautéed veggies, and your favorite toppings. Finish with a drizzle of creamy salsa ranch dressing.
Notes
- Hosting a casual dinner? Set up a taco salad bar with a variety of toppings in individual bowls so everyone can build their own salad just the way they like it!
- Use 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning per one pound of ground beef.
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