Print

The Ultimate 30-Minute Taco Salad with Creamy Homemade Dressing

A close-up view of a large bowl filled with amazing taco salad, featuring lettuce, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, olives, cheese, and dressing.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create this satisfying taco salad in under 30 minutes. It features seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner solution for your family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or Doritos (optional topping)
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Catalina dressing (or French dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the liquid has mostly evaporated. Set the seasoned beef aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the homemade dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Catalina dressing, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a very large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and black olives.
  5. Add the cooled seasoned ground beef to the salad mixture.
  6. Pour about half of the homemade dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Add more dressing as needed.
  7. Divide the salad among serving bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheese and the optional crushed tortilla chips or Doritos for crunch. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or black beans for the ground beef.
  • If you are making this ahead for meal prep, keep the dressing and the crunchy topping separate until just before serving to maintain texture.
  • This salad pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Mexican lager.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/taco-salad-ultimate-30-minute-recipe/