This Taco Salad recipe is a tasty salad with a Mexican-inspired twist! Layer some of your favorite taco toppings with a crispy homemade taco bowl to create the perfect meal to celebrate your next Taco Tuesday!
What Makes This The Perfect Taco Tuesday Solution
- Fast. A quick main course that is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Easy. Cook your ground beef (or use precooked!), prep your veggies, warm your bowl, and layer everything up!
- Versatile. Fill your taco salad bowl with all of your favorite taco toppings to create your perfect bite!
- Delicious. This beef recipe is packed with flavorful ingredients to create an absolute flavor explosion in every bite.
What Is The Difference Between A Taco Bowl And A Taco Salad?
The difference between a taco salad and a taco bowl is all in the delivery! Both options are incredibly delicious. A taco salad is all of your favorite things about a taco tossed together in a bowl and eaten with a fork. Taco Salad Bowls add another element of texture with an edible crispy tortilla bowl for a fun twist on a classic meal.
What All Is Good In Taco Salad?
The beauty of this taco salad recipe is that you can customize it to include or exclude ingredients to create something perfect for you and your family! Below is what I prefer to use in my taco salad, but feel free to add or subtract anything that you can think of to create your perfect bite.
- Low Carb Tortilla
- Ground Beef
- Onion
- Black Beans
- Shredded Cheese
- Keto Taco Seasoning
- Salsa
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Sour Cream
- Cilantro
What Is A Taco Salad Shell Made Of?
You can buy premade taco salad bowls or tostada bowls at your local grocery store. While they are delicious, they’re also fairly expensive. I don’t mind splurging on a specialty ingredient if I’m craving something, but the issue with the premade bowls is that more often than not, they are broken when you open the box.
Also, premade taco salad bowls are high in carbs. I try to watch my carb intake when I can, so I like to make my own so I can control the carb content.
So, for this taco salad recipe, I use a low carb tortilla, a bowl, and a little bit of oil spray to create my homemade bowl! They may not be as pretty as one you buy at the grocery store, but they are just as tasty and help keep me on track with my weight loss goals.
If you eat with your eyes as much as you do your mouth, you can buy one of these taco salad bowl molds or even one of these taco salad bowl makers for a perfectly formed bowl.
How To Make A Taco Salad Bowl
- Dice the onion and place it in a skillet with your ground beef. Crumble it into small pieces with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Remove the renderings and add the taco seasoning and a small amount of water to coat the beef.
- While the ground beef is cooking, place the low carb tortilla in a heat-safe bowl or taco salad bowl mold and spray it with cooking spray. Place it in the air fryer and cook.
- Wash your produce and dice the lettuce and tomatoes into small bite-sized pieces.
- Remove your taco salad bowl from the air fryer and begin layering your ingredients. Ground Beef Black Beans Lettuce Tomato Cheese Salsa Sour Cream Cilantro
- Serve and enjoy!
Variations
- Make it vegetarian. Living a meat-free lifestyle? Enjoy a tasty meatless version of this taco salad by simply leaving out the ground beef. Feel free to add in some plant based meatless crumbles to add texture and additional protein.
- Add some spice. Like things on the spicier side? Use spicy salsa and some jalapeno slices to top your salad for a heat-filled bite.
- Skip the bowl. Trying to keep your carbs as low as possible while still enjoying the traditional flavors of this taco salad? Skip the bowl and omit the beans to easily stay within your daily macros.
Tips And Tricks
- Dry your produce. After you wash and dice your lettuce, allow it to rest on papertowels or a kitchen towel to absorb any excess moisture. This will help prevent your taco bowl from becoming soggy.
- Swap out the protein. Not a fan of ground beef? Try using seasoned ground pork, or leftover rotisserie chicken as a substitute.
- Try different sauces. Sure, salsa and sour cream are an iconic duo, but consider using my Taco Salad Dressing , Keto Ranch , or Baja Sauce on your taco salad recipe instead!
What To Serve With It
I love this Taco Salad recipe because it is essentially a complete meal all in one package–the bowl even feels like a perfect little bow on top. If you want to serve some sides along with it, here are a few of my favorite things to pair:
- Southwest Corn Salad
- Instant Pot Mexican Rice
- Instant Pot Refried Beans
- Tomatillo Salsa
- Pineapple Mango Salsa
How Long Does It Last?
If you’re worried about being able to finish everything in one meal, consider leaving the ingredients in separate containers. If you make a salad that is an individual portion, you don’t have to worry about the leftovers becoming soggy when stored for later.
With the amount of moisture in the salad bowl filling, the taco salad can release a large amount of liquid and cause the bowl and lettuce to become soggy. So, it is best to enjoy it immediately.
If you keep your ingredients in separate air tight containers and store them in your refrigerator, you can use them to create a fresh taco salad for 3-4 days after preparing them.
Can You Freeze It?
Unfortunately, this taco salad recipe isn’t a great candidate for freezing. Due to so many ingredients with a high moisture content and a considerable amount of dairy, the texture of the dip will change substantially when frozen and thawed.
For the best bite of dip make just enough to enjoy within a few days and discard any remaining leftovers when the taste and texture begins to deteriorate.
OurBest Taco Recipes
- Taco Dip Recipe
- Wonton Tacos
- Baked Chicken Tacos
- Potato Tacos
- Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
Taco Salad Recipe | Simple Taco Salad Bowl
Ingredients
- ▢ 4 low carb tortillas
- ▢ 1 pound ground beef
- ▢ 2 cups black beans
- ▢ 1 cup diced onion
- ▢ 1 cup cheese
- ▢ 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- ▢ 1 cup salsa
- ▢ 2 cups lettuce
- ▢ 1 cup tomatoes
- ▢ 1/2 cup sour cream
- ▢ cilantro
Instructions
- Dice the onion and place it in a skillet with your ground beef. Crumble it into small pieces with a spatula until browned and cooked through for, about 5 minutes. Remove the renderings and add the taco seasoning and a small amount of water to coat the beef.
- While the ground beef is cooking, place the low carb tortilla in a heat-safe bowl or taco salad bowl mold and spray it with cooking spray. Place it in the air fryer and cook. for 5-7 minutes.
- Wash your produce and dice the lettuce and tomatoes into small bite-sized pieces.
- Remove your taco salad bowl from the air fryer and begin layering your ingredients.
- Serve and enjoy!
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Taco Salad Recipe | Simple Taco Salad Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 low carb tortillas
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups black beans
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups lettuce
- 1 cup tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- cilantro
Instructions
- Dice the onion and place it in a skillet with your ground beef. Crumble it into small pieces with a spatula until browned and cooked through for, about 5 minutes. Remove the renderings and add the taco seasoning and a small amount of water to coat the beef.
- While the ground beef is cooking, place the low carb tortilla in a heat-safe bowl or taco salad bowl mold and spray it with cooking spray. Place it in the air fryer and cook. for 5-7 minutes.
- Wash your produce and dice the lettuce and tomatoes into small bite-sized pieces.
- Remove your taco salad bowl from the air fryer and begin layering your ingredients.
- Serve and enjoy!
Taco Salad Recipe | Simple Taco Salad Bowl https://twosleevers.com/taco-salad-recipe/
This Mexican Ground Beef Casserole With Ground Beef is a super family-friendly meal that you’re going to love! Make it quickly and easily in your Instant Pot.
What Makes This Mexican Ground Beef Casserole So Fantastic
This Instant Pot Mexican Ground Beef Casserole is easily one of my favorite Mexican ground beef recipes , and for good reason. It’s a casserole recipe that’s bursting with Mexican flavors but doesn’t take a whole lot of effort on my part.
What makes this Mexican Ground Beef Casserole so easy? Why the Instant Pot , of course.
It’s practically a pour and cook recipe , you just have to saute the beef and onions before you dump in the rest of the ingredients. And the one extra step is well worth the delicious outcome.
This is one of those easy casseroles that you’ll find yourself wanting to make again and again. It’s so very simple yet so very good.
And since I was able to keep myself from adding cayenne to the mix (what can I say, I like my food spicy), this is a completely family-friendly meal option.
Another thing that I like about this recipe is that, unlike most ground beef recipes , it doesn’t use a ton of ground beef.
Using just half a pound of meat and adding red beans lets you reduce the meat without losing the heartiness, and using plant protein to round out your meal.
That means just as much protein without having to break the bank on meat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground Beef - Ground beef is the primary protein source and the star of this dish. It provides a savory and meaty flavor that is central to the casserole.
- Onio n- Onions are used to add depth and a sweet, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Tomatoes - They contribute acidity, moisture, and a rich tomato flavor to the casserole. They also help create the sauce that binds the ingredients together.
- Bell Peppers - Bell peppers add both color and a sweet, mild flavor to the casserole.
- Kidney Beans - Kidney beans are a source of plant-based protein and fiber in the casserole. They contribute a creamy texture and a slightly earthy taste.
- Taco Seasoning - It’s used to season the ground beef and other ingredients, infusing them with a Mexican-inspired flavor profile that includes smokiness, heat, and savory notes.
- Salt - Kosher salt is used to season the casserole and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Basmati Rice - Basmati rice is used to provide a base for the casserole. It absorbs the flavorful juices from the other ingredients and becomes tender during the cooking process.
How To Make Mexican Casserole With Ground Beef
- Select saute. When the pot is hot, add the ground beef and onions. Cook until the meat is no longer pink. Add some water and deglaze while allowing the water to evaporate.
- Add taco seasoning, salt, and rice.
- Add more water. Pour in the tomatoes, peppers, and kidney beans on top of the rice and meat mixture. Do not stir .
- Place the lid on the Instant Pot then close the pressure-release valve. Select Pressure Cook and set the pot at HIGH pressure.
- Once the timer hits zero, let pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes and then use a quick release to remove any remaining steam.
- Stir and serve.
Tips And Tricks For Making Instant Pot Ground Beef And Rice
Creating a Mexican Ground Beef Casserole that’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor is all about simple technique and clever ingredient choices. Here are some tips and tricks to help you nail it every time:
- Customize it. You can garnish with cheese, cilantro, avocados, sour cream. Use whatever your taste buds and dietary considerations allow.
- Add an egg. This dish is perfect with a fried egg or two on top of the rice.
- Double up. If you double the recipe, use only 1.75 cups of water, otherwise, your rice will be quite mushy.
- Avoid the burn notice. Do not forget to deglaze the Instant Pot if you have any meat or onions stuck to the bottom. I often use an extra 1/4 cup of water to deglaze, and I allow it all to evaporate before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Variations
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor flavors, heat levels, and ingredients to suit any craving. Try one of these tasty twists to keep the dish exciting every time you make it:
- Cheesy Fiesta Style - Add cream cheese or queso blanco for an ultra-creamy, indulgent casserole.
- Veggie-Packed Version - Mix in corn, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Chipotle Kick - Stir in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky heat and deep flavor.
- Taco-Night Twist - Swap rice for crushed tortilla chips or cooked pasta for a fun texture change.
What To Eat With Mexican Rice And Beans
Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is bold, comforting, and crave-worthy, so pairing it with the right sides can turn dinner into a fiesta of flavors. Here are some delicious ideas to complete your plate:
- Tortilla Chips for scooping or adding extra crunch
- Pico de Gallo to bring bright, fresh acidity
- Guacamole or Sliced Avocado for creamy richness
- Warm Corn or Flour Tortillas to make handheld bites
How Long Does It Last?
If you have leftovers of the casserole and want to refrigerate them, they should be stored in an airtight container or covered with aluminum foil. When stored this way, Mexican ground beef casserole can typically last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Can You Freeze It?
If you want to extend the shelf life of the casserole, you can freeze it. Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Properly stored, Mexican ground beef casserole can stay good in the freezer for approximately 2 to 3 months.
When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Other Tasty Mexican Recipes
Aside from this Mexican Ground Beef Casserole With Rice And Beans, here are some more good Mexican dishes you’re sure to love:
- Pork Chile Verde - A delicious meld of ingredients for a quick, savory dinner.
- Poblano Chicken Soup - Absolutely bursting with flavor without being spicy.
- Flank Steak Fajitas - Super easy to make and oh-so-delicious!
- Air Fried Tomatillo Salsa - Plenty of heat and flavor to go with any meal.
- Air Fryer Chile Rellenos - The best, easiest, tastiest air fryer Chile Rellenos you’ve never had!
- Air Fryer Corn Eloté - Sweet, savory and delicious.
- Air Fryer Southwestern Roasted Corn - Perfectly sweet, tangy and spicy.
- Arroz Pina Colada - A simple, one step dessert recipe.
- Low Carb Stuffed Poblano Peppers - Delicious, low carb, and take under 30 minutes to make.
- Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa - Make this deliciously tender barbacoa recipe quickly in your Instant Pot.
- Instant Pot Tamale Pie - All of the taste of tamales but done in under an hour.
- Instant Pot Chicken Tacos - Delicious shredded chicken tacos in just 30 minutes.
Mexican Casserole With Ground Beef | Instant Pot Ground Beef And Rice
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- ▢ 1/2 pound Ground Beef
- ▢ 1 cup Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 cup Tomatoes , diced
- ▢ 1 cup Bell Peppers , diced
- ▢ 1.5 cups Kidney Beans , cooked or 1 can drained, rinsed kidney beans
- ▢ 3 tablespoons Taco Seasoning , salt-free
- ▢ 1.5 teaspoons Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1 cup Basmati Rice , rinsed and drained
- ▢ 1.25 cups Water
For garnishing
- ▢ 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- ▢ Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese , optional
Instructions
Select SAUTÉ/Normal on the Instant Pot . When the pot is hot, add the ground beef and onions and break up as much as you can. Cook for 3-5 minutes. Add ¼ cup of water and deglaze thoroughly, allowing the water to evaporate.
Add taco seasoning, salt, and rice and mix thoroughly.
Add 1 cup water. Scatter the tomatoes, peppers, and kidney beans on top of the rice and meat mixture. Do not stir.
Secure the lid on the pot. Close the pressure-release valve. Select MANUAL/PRESSURE COOK and set the pot at HIGH pressure for 4 minutes.
When cook time is complete, let pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. At the end of the cooking time, use a quick release to depressurize.
Stir and serve.
You can garnish with cheese, cilantro, avocados, sour cream—whatever your taste buds and dietary considerations allow.
This dish is perfect with a fried egg on two on top of the rice.
If you double the recipe, use only 1.75 cups of water, otherwise, your rice will be quite mushy.
Do not forget to deglaze the Instant Pot if you have any meat or onions stuck to the bottom. I often use an extra 1/4 cup of water to deglaze, and I allow it all to evaporate before adding the rest of the ingredients.
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Don’t forget to check out my otherBest-selling Instant Pot Cookbooks!
Indian Instant Pot , Keto Instant Pot, Instant Pot Fast and Easy , Healthy Instant Pot & Vegetarian Instant Pot .
