There is nothing too revolutionary about basic Taco Salad, but this saucy ground beef recipe takes the meal to a whole new level! The next time you’re in the mood for an easy meal, or a customizable meal to feed a crowd, give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t regret it!
There are probably as many variations of Taco Salad as there are people, but the basic idea is the same. Start with a layer of Fritos, layer on beans (in my case, canned beans!), saucy beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, sliced olives, avocado, sour cream, etc.
Whenever I can’t figure out what to feed a large group of people, I like to serve taco salad because it’s so customizable. Vegetarians can leave off the meat, meat lovers can go for straight meat and cheese…you get the picture!
Saucy Ground Beef
Making the saucy beef mixture couldn’t be easier. Brown 1 ½ pounds of ground beef and drain excess grease. Add lots of spices, some tomato sauce, and water. Let simmer until slightly thickened. That’s all there is to it. This recipe can even be prepped ahead of time and kept warm in a crock pot.
And as I mentioned before, I like to take a shortcut with the beans and heat a can of quality store bought beans for the taco salad.
I hope this meal makes your holidays a little less hectic and a little more tasty!
Frito Taco Salad
1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, optional (I’m not a fan of cumin)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 pounds 80/20% ground beef
8 ounce can tomato sauce
1 cup water (Life hack: I use the empty tomato sauce can to measure the water – it’s 1 cup and I’m able to get every last bit of sauce without dirtying any extra dishes.)
Directions:
Brown meat over medium heat, drain off all but 2 T of excess grease. Add spices to the meat, and cook until fragrant (1-2 minutes). Add tomato sauce and water and let simmer, uncovered (over medium-low heat) until the sauce thickens. Serve with your favorite toppings! Some of our favorites are Fritos, beans, chopped romaine lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, diced onion, sliced olives, sour cream, and cheese!
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