Loaded Beef Taco Salad
This vibrant and hearty Loaded Beef Taco Salad is a modern twist on the classic Tex-Mex taco, deconstructed into a fresh, colorful salad perfect for lunch or dinner. Combining seasoned ground beef with crisp romaine, creamy avocado, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips, it's a satisfying bowl full of contrasting textures and bold southwest flavors.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Salad bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef preferably 80/20 for juiciness
- 2 teaspoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin freshly ground if possible
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds a smoky depth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked
For the Salad:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce chopped, washed and dried
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 medium ripe avocado diced
- 1 cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp, for more flavor
- 1 cup tortilla strips store-bought or homemade
For the Dressing:
- 0.5 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional, to taste
Instructions
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C). Add the ground beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Add cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed and set meat aside to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, and hot sauce until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, avocado, black beans, cheddar cheese, and tortilla strips.
- Add the cooked beef and drizzle with the prepared dressing. Gently toss to combine or serve layered for a composed salad look.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or crumbled tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- To make it ahead, prep and store components separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain crunch.
- Want an Extra Crunch? Pan-toast the tortilla strips with a dash of chili oil.
Nutrition
Calories: 684kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 32gFat: 53gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 126mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1037mgFiber: 9gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 7267IUVitamin C: 21mgCalcium: 307mgIron: 5mg
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