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Beef Taco Salad Recipe: Quick and Flavorful Family Meal
Youssef Hb

Beef Taco Salad

A quick 25-minute salad combining crispy tortilla strips, bold taco-seasoned ground beef, smoky tomato paste, and romaine for a customizable family-friendly meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners with options for weekend upgrades.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend; ground turkey substitute)
  • Kosher Salt (to taste)
  • 2 Tbsp Taco Seasoning (homemade recommended)
  • 2 Tbsp Tomato Paste (olive oil-based for richness)
  • 2-3 cups Vegetable Oil (peanut or sunflower preferred)
  • 2 Corn Tortillas (4", cut into strips)
  • 2 heads Romaine (alternatives: mixed greens or cabbage)
  • 1 (15 oz) can Black Beans (alternatives: canned white beans or add-ons like grilled corn)

Method
 

  1. Heat cast iron skillet over medium high
  2. Crack beef using wooden spoon
  3. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
  4. Add taco seasoning and tomato paste
  5. Cook until beef is fully browned
  6. Heat 2 inches oil in separate skillet
  7. Add tortilla strips in small batches
  8. Fry 45 seconds per side until crisp
  9. Drain on paper towel-lined platter
  10. Sprinkle with sea salt immediately
  11. Toss romaine with optional toppings
  12. Top with beef mixture, tortilla strips, and black beans

Notes

Seasoning salt may vary if using canned tomatoes
Tortilla substitutes: use lettuce wraps for fat-free option
Weekends: add avocado, grilled corn, or cheese
Husband's comment: ‘This tastes like $12 street food!’
Store leftovers in airtight containers up to 3 days