Easy 3 Ingredient Taco Salad Recipe with Ground Beef

This recipe has been in my family for over 30 years.  My father-in-law made it for my husband and I when were dating and it has become a family favorite that we have enjoyed for years.  It has 3 simple ingredients, and then you add any of your favorite taco ingredients.

Also, it is a one pot meal, so the only clean up is one skillet.  And, this is a winner to me!

What can I season my taco salad beef with?

For this recipe, I have chosen to only add 3 ingredients.  Which are ground meat, refried beans and picante sauce.  However, you can add a variety of seasonings that can be purchased at your local grocery store:

• picante sauce
• packet of taco seasoning or a homemade taco seasoning
• chili powder
• garlic powder or a garlic clove
• onion powder
• cumin
• paprika 

What is the perfect base for a taco salad?

To truly craft the perfect taco salad bowl, it all starts with choosing the perfect base. The foundation of your culinary creation plays a crucial role in providing the right balance of flavors and textures. So, before we dive into layering on the delicious toppings, let’s explore the various options you have for the base.

One classic choice for your taco salad base is a bed of crispy, fresh lettuce. Whether you prefer romaine, iceberg, or a mix of leafy greens, the crispness and lightness of lettuce add a refreshing element to the dish. The vibrant green color also lends a visually appealing aspect to your creation, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider using a base of tangy and zesty coleslaw. The cabbage-based slaw adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients in your taco salad. With the right balance of acidity and creaminess, coleslaw can bring a unique twist to your culinary masterpiece.

For those seeking for a healthy taco salad recipe, why not go for a base of fluffy and flavorful rice? Whether it’s traditional Mexican rice or a fragrant cilantro-lime version, rice adds a satisfying texture and a savory element to your bowl. Plus, to make this recipe a little bit more low carb, instead of tortillas chips you can add cauliflower rice to your taco salad.

Another alternative is to use a base of protein-packed beans. Whether you opt for kidney beans, hearty black beans, pinto beans, or maybe even a combination of both, the richness and creaminess of cooked beans provide a satisfying and nutritious element to your taco salad. Their smooth texture pairs well with the various toppings, adding a layer of complexity to every bite.

Layering Flavors and Textures

Now that we’ve explored the various options for the perfect base, it’s time to move on to the fun part: layering flavors and textures. Get ready to unleash your creativity as we dive into the art of combining ingredients to create a taco salad that’s truly extraordinary.

When it comes to layering flavors and textures, think of your taco salad as a symphony of tastes and sensations. Each ingredient should harmonize with the others, creating a delightful medley in every bite. Start by considering the different elements you want to include in your salad, such as crunchy vegetables, creamy dressings, and savory proteins.

One effective way to layer flavors is by mixing ingredients that have contrasting tastes. For example, if you have a base of crispy lettuce, try adding sweet corn or juicy tomatoes to balance out the freshness with bursts of natural sweetness. Similarly, the intensity of bold, spicy meats like seasoned taco meat or shredded chicken can be tempered with cooling elements like diced avocado or sour cream.

Texturally, the key to a remarkable taco salad lies in the variety of textures you incorporate. Think about incorporating ingredients that provide a satisfying crunch alongside those that offer a creamy or chewy consistency. This contrast will elevate your salad and keep each mouthful interesting. Consider adding crispy tortilla strips, toasted pumpkin seeds, or crushed taco shells for that delightful crunch, while smooth refried beans or grated cheese can add a velvety touch.

What toppings go on taco salad?

Any of your favorite toppings can be added to this easy taco salad recipe.  Whether you decide to add crunchy tortilla strips or add lettuce as a base, either choice will be the perfect complement to this meat mixture.

• tortilla chips
• green onions, red onion or yellow onion
• jalapenos
• romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce
• black olives
• grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or chopped roma tomatoes
• cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
• pico de gallo
• sour cream
• guacamole or diced avocado

Adding the Ultimate Toppings

Toppings will elevate your salad from ordinary to extraordinary, adding bursts of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Start by considering the classic toppings that have stood the test of time. Crisp lettuce provides a refreshing crunch, while ripe tomatoes add a burst of juiciness. Vibrant red onions bring a mild tang, and creamy avocado slices bring a smooth richness to each bite. These foundational toppings not only create a delicious base but also lend a beautiful pop of color to your salad.

To create a symphony of flavors, it’s essential to incorporate contrasting elements. Add a sprinkling of tangy pickled jalapenos for a kick of heat, or toss in some sweet corn kernels for a touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless—crunchy radishes, zesty cilantro, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips can add that extra oomph to your salad.

When it comes to proteins, you have countless options to satisfy your cravings. Juicy grilled chicken, tender steak strips, ground turkey or succulent shrimp can all serve as a hearty centerpiece for your taco salad. For a vegetarian twist, consider incorporating protein-packed black beans or marinated tofu. Whichever protein you choose, make sure it complements the other flavors and textures in your salad.

Don’t forget about cheese! Whether you prefer the sharp tang of cheddar, the creamy decadence of queso fresco, or the melty goodness of shredded Monterey Jack, adding cheese is a surefire way to enhance the richness of your taco salad.

Finally, don’t overlook the power of a zesty squeeze of lime juice or a dollop of tangy sour cream to tie all the flavors together. These finishing touches can add a bright, acidic note or a creamy coolness that completes your taco salad masterpiece.

What goes in a 3 ingredient taco salad? (scroll down for the printable recipe card)

• Ground beef, ground turkey or ground chicken. Also, you can choose a lean ground beef too.
• ​Refried Beans
• Picante Sauce

How do I make taco salad? (scroll down for the printable recipe card)

1. Take a large skillet and place it over medium heat.
2. Add your ground beef to the skillet
3. Cook the ground beef until it is browned, using your spatula or wooden spoon to crumble up the meat
4. Once the ground beef is browned, add the cans of refried beans and combine with a spoon
5. Add picante sauce to the beef and beans
6. Combine and simmer on low for 3-5 minutes until the beans are warm.

Finally, garnish with a sprinkle or handful of chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or a scattering of sliced radishes on top.

Next, it’s all about variety. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to add depth and texture to your taco salad. Consider offering an array of proteins like grilled chicken, seasoned ground beef, ground chicken or even shrimp for seafood lovers. Include a selection of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, and corn to add a burst of crunch and color. And for those who appreciate a creamy element to their taco salad, include options like avocado, sour cream, or a zesty dressing.

Another way to make your taco salad a crowd-pleasing sensation is by adding a surprising twist or unexpected element. Think outside the classic recipe and incorporate unique ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, or even pickled jalapeños for extra zing.

Throughout this ultimate guide, we have learned that selecting the perfect taco salad ingredients, layering flavors and textures, mastering the dressing, and adding the ultimate toppings are the key elements to creating the best taco salad for you next family dinner.