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Catalina Taco Salad

Overhead view of Catalina taco salad with ground beef, Fritos, kidney beans, black olives, corn, tomatoes, and shredded lettuce in a large glass serving bowl

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4.3 from 6 reviews

A classic taco salad made with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, cheddar cheese, beans, tomatoes, olives, Fritos, and tangy Catalina dressing. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for potlucks, Taco Tuesday, and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it's no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess grease.
  3. Set the meat aside to cool slightly while you prep the rest of the ingredients.

Assemble the Base of the Salad

  1. In a large serving bowl, combine the lettuce, grated cheddar cheese, kidney beans, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and green onions.
  2. Gently toss the ingredients to distribute evenly.

Add the Beef and Chips

  1. Just before serving, add the slightly cooled ground beef to the salad mixture.
  2. Pour in the Fritos corn chips and gently toss everything together.

Dress and Serve

  1. Drizzle Catalina dressing over the top of the salad, a little at a time.
  2. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated, using as much or as little dressing as preferred.
  3. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.
Youtube video

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Try ground turkey or plant-based crumbles in place of ground beef.
  • Black beans or pinto beans can be used instead of kidney beans.
  • Substitute tortilla strips or crushed Doritos for Fritos for a different crunch.
  • Ranch or Thousand Island can be used in place of Catalina, though it will change the flavor.

Storage Tips

  • Store undressed salad and beef separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To keep chips crunchy, add them fresh just before serving.
  • This salad is not freezer-friendly due to the fresh produce and chips.

Nutrition