Loaded Taco Salad

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Loaded Taco Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

  • For the Meat:

    • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef or turkey

    • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper)

    • ¼ cup water

  • For the Salad Base:

    • 1 large head Romaine lettuce, chopped

    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced

    • ½ cup red onion, finely diced

    • ½ cup black olives, sliced

    • ½ cup cucumber, diced (optional)

    • 1 cup shredded Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

    • 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed slightly

  • Optional Toppings & Dressing:

    • Pickled or fresh jalapeños

    • Grilled corn

    • Cilantro-lime dressing, ranch, or salsa

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6–8 minutes). Drain any excess grease.

  2. Season: Lower the heat, add the taco seasoning and water, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  3. Assemble the Base: In a large serving bowl, lay down the chopped Romaine lettuce.

  4. Layer the Toppings: Layer the seasoned meat, diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumbers, black olives, and shredded cheese over the lettuce.

  5. Add the Crunch: Toss in the crushed tortilla chips just before serving so they stay crispy.

  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, extra jalapeño slices, and serve alongside your favorite cream-based dressing or salsa.