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Layered Taco Salad Recipe

4.6 from 90 reviews

This Layered Taco Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish combining fresh iceberg lettuce, corn, black beans, seasoned taco meat, and a creamy dressing made from sour cream, salsa, and ranch seasoning. Topped with shredded Mexican cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and pico de gallo, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors perfect for casual meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning

Salad Layers

  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 can corn, drained (about 15 oz)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (about 15 oz)
  • 3 cups taco meat (prepared ground beef with taco seasoning)
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 cup pico de gallo
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, salsa, and ranch seasoning thoroughly until smooth and well mixed. Set this creamy dressing aside for later layering.
  2. Layer the Salad Base: In a large bowl with high sides, place the chopped iceberg lettuce evenly. Then, layer the drained corn on top, followed by the black beans, and then the prepared taco meat spread uniformly.
  3. Add the Dressing and Toppings: Evenly spread the sour cream dressing mixture over the taco meat layer. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese on top, then generously crush and sprinkle the tortilla chips for crunch. Finally, add the fresh pico de gallo as the topmost layer.
  4. Serve and Toss: When ready to enjoy, either toss the salad thoroughly in the same bowl to coat everything evenly with the dressing or transfer the entire salad to a larger bowl and toss gently to combine all layers well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and balanced.

Notes

  • The taco meat can be made by browning ground beef seasoned with taco seasoning and draining excess fat.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute taco meat with seasoned sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein.
  • To keep the tortilla chips crunchy longer, add them just before serving.
  • Chilling the salad ingredients before layering helps keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Keywords: Layered taco salad, Mexican salad, taco meat salad, easy layered salad, taco dressing salad