Ultimate Loaded Taco Salad Recipe

A vibrant, crunchy, flavor-packed Loaded Taco Salad that combines seasoned beef, fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and irresistible toppings. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep. Every bite delivers the ideal mix of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, bold cheese, sweet corn, salty olives, and rich taco-seasoned beef.

 Ingredients (Full Detailed List)

For the Taco Meat

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• ½ cup water
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Fresh Vegetables

• 1 large head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup canned corn, drained
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 avocado, diced (optional but recommended)

Cheese & Crunchy Add-Ins

• 1–1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed (or Doritos for extra flavor)
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed & drained

Creamy Taco Salad Dressing

• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup salsa
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste

 Instructions

1. Cook the Taco Meat

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (6–8 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Add taco seasoning + ½ cup water; stir.
5. Simmer on low for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
6. Taste and add salt/pepper if needed.
7. Set aside to cool slightly before adding to the salad.

2. Prepare the Dressing

1. In a bowl, whisk together:
   • sour cream
   • salsa
   • mayonnaise
   • lime juice
   • taco seasoning
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Chill in the fridge until ready to use.

3. Build the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, layer in this order:

1. Chopped lettuce
2. Tomatoes
3. Corn
4. Black olives
5. Bell pepper
6. Red onion
7. Black beans
8. Shredded cheese
9. Warm taco meat
10. Avocado (add last so it stays fresh)

4. Add the Crunch

Right before serving:

• Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips (as much as you like!)

This keeps them crispy.

5. Dress & Toss

• Drizzle the creamy taco dressing over the top.
• Toss gently until everything is evenly mixed.
• Taste and adjust with extra salsa, lime, or salt.

 Serving Tips

• Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
• For meal prep: pack lettuce + toppings separately from the dressing & chips.
• Great with a squeeze of lime and a side of guacamole.