Loaded Taco Salad
This Loaded Taco Salad is a flavorful, satisfying, and protein-packed meal that brings all the best elements of tacos into a refreshing salad. It features seasoned ground beef (or turkey), crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, crunchy tortilla chips, and a zesty homemade dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or meal prep and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning
¼ cup water (to mix with seasoning)
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce (or mixed greens)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 avocado, diced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeno, sliced (optional for spice)
For the Dressing:
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp honey (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Taco Meat
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef (or turkey) and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and ¼ cup water, mixing well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, toss romaine lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, avocado, and jalapenos.
2. Add the cooked taco meat on top.
3. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro.
4. Drizzle with the lime dressing and toss lightly to combine.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately with extra tortilla chips, hot sauce, or guacamole on the side!
Notes & Tips
Make it healthier: Use lean ground turkey, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and skip the tortilla chips.
Make it vegetarian: Swap meat for extra beans, grilled tofu, or sauteed mushrooms.
For meal prep: Store salad, meat, and dressing separately in airtight containers and combine just before eating.
Spice it up: Add extra jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Keep the lettuce, meat, and dressing separate and assemble just before serving.
Q: What other toppings can I add?
A: Try diced bell peppers, olives, pickled onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Yes, but homemade dressing gives better flavor and fewer additives.
Q: Can I make this keto-friendly?
A: Yes! Skip the beans, corn, and tortilla chips and use extra avocado and cheese.
Q: Can I use leftover taco meat?
A: Absolutely! This is a great way to use up extra taco meat from another meal.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbs: ~32g
Fats: ~24g
Fiber: ~7g
Enjoy this delicious, crunchy, and satisfying Loaded Taco Salad!