Taco Salad Recipe

Paula Deen

Video Stats

Channel: Paula Deen
Host: Paula Deen
Published: Jul 6, 2025
Views: 12.7k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 15 min
Difficulty: Beginner
Serves: 4

Overview

Taco salad is a beloved dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures in a single bowl. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create a satisfying meal. Starting with a base of fresh lettuce, the addition of chopped tomatoes and onions adds a refreshing crunch. The ground beef, seasoned to perfection, provides a hearty element that makes this salad filling enough for lunch or dinner.

One of the standout features of this taco salad is the use of Catalina dressing. Its sweet and tangy profile enhances the flavors of the fresh vegetables and savory beef, making each bite delightful. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, the recipe suggests topping the salad with crushed chips, which not only adds texture but also a burst of flavor.

This dish is incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you prefer black olives, avocado, or different types of cheese, taco salad allows for creativity. It’s perfect for potlucks or casual family meals, as everyone can customize their own bowl. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients from the fridge.

Overall, this taco salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines freshness, flavor, and fun. It’s a dish that invites sharing and enjoyment, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:15

Chop lettuce and place it in a large mixing bowl.

00:20

Tip: Wrap chopped iceberg lettuce in a towel and refrigerate for a couple of hours to keep it fresh.

2
00:43

Combine chopped lettuce, fresh onion, and diced tomato in the bowl.

3
00:54

Add about a pound of ground beef to the bowl.

4
01:01

Add pre-cut cheddar cheese to the mixture.

01:14

Tip: Use classic Catalina dressing for a flavorful addition to your taco salad.

5
01:18

Pour half a bottle of Catalina dressing into the salad.

6
02:07

Toss in some fiesta Sun Chips or any preferred chips.

7
02:12

Transfer the salad into a serving bowl or container.

02:35

Tip: Mash up your favorite chips, like Doritos, and toss them into the salad for added flavor and texture.

8
03:09

Top the salad with salsa and sour cream.

03:18

Tip: Hold back a couple of pieces of cheese for garnish if desired.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Tomato1
Onion1
Cheddar Cheese1 cup
Catalina Dressing1/2 bottle
Chips1 bag
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Almond Milk

Ingredient: Gluten

    → Substitution: Gluten-Free Chips

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
25
per serving
Carbs
30
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Beginner
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

Got a Recipe Question? Ask Away!

Interesting Tidbits

  • Taco salad can be customized with various toppings like salsa, sour cream, and different types of chips.
  • Using pre-chopped lettuce can save time in preparing the salad.
  • Catalina dressing adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the ingredients well.
  • Adding crushed chips or noodles on top provides a satisfying crunch.