Sometimes I find myself in a cooking rut, making our current favorites on a non-stop loop. One of the friendly reminders this blog has given me is to shake things up once in a while. And, in full disclosure, I have to thank my family for this one. It’s always an epiphany when someone says, “Hey, you know what you haven’t made in a while…”
This taco salad has popped up everywhere in its walking taco version at concession stands and food trucks. But this? This is the full-on dinner edition (and it never fails to satisfy!)
Basic Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 4 cups sturdy lettuce (I use iceberg)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 can diced green chilis
- One bag Doritos
Optional add ins:
- Olives
- Kidney beans
- Jalapenos
- Anything else you’d want in a taco!
Catalina Dressing:
- 1/4 c ketchup
- 1/4 c sugar
- 1/4 c red wine vinegar
- Onion powder and paprika to taste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Cook!
- Prep the Dressing:
In a mason jar, combine all dressing ingredients. Shake well and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors come together. - Cook the Beef
Brown the ground beef with taco seasoning. Let it cool to room temperature. - Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, layer your lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, diced onion, peppers, green chilis, olives, kidney beans… you get the idea. The possibilities are endless! - Add the Crunch:
Crumble in most of the bag of Doritos — I always save a few to enjoy on the side! - Dress & Serve:
Toss everything with your homemade Catalina dressing, serve, and enjoy!
Pro Tip: If you’re feeding more than four, just double the recipe. I’ve been making my own Catalina dressing ever since a craving hit and we were out and honestly, I’m never going back to the bottled version. Homemade dressings are a game changer in my kitchen!
Bonus: I always make this in a bowl that my grandmother gave my mother, which now I lovingly use!
What’s your favorite dinner salad? Let us know! I’m always looking for new ideas to add to the table!
Eat well friends!
Before you go—come join me at the table! Gather & Savor is my laid-back Substack where I share the recipes, stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and seasonal favorites that make life delicious. I’d love to have you there. Take a look and subscribe!
Michelle Cooks 
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