Introduction
Ever crave a dish that’s as fun to build as it is to eat? This 7 layer taco salad recipe with ground beef is the kind of crowd-pleasing classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a summer potluck, or just need a quick dinner fix, this layered taco salad recipe delivers bold flavor, vibrant color, and satisfying crunch in every bite.
Packed with seasoned beef, creamy sour cream, zesty salsa, and crisp lettuce — all topped with crunchy Doritos — it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast. And the best part? You can prep it ahead of time and serve it straight from a glass dish, showing off those gorgeous layers like a layered taco salad casserole you didn’t even have to bake.
If you love the comfort of a seven layer taco dip but want something a bit heartier, this is your go-to. Let’s dig into this delicious twist on taco night!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of This 7 Layer Taco Salad
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy, versatile, and always a hit, this 7 layer taco salad recipe with ground beef is your new go-to. It’s the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and convenience — all stacked in one stunning, layered bowl.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick and no-fuss: This recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together fast, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep it in advance and chill it until you’re ready to serve. Just add the Doritos right before to keep that crunch alive!
- Crowd-pleasing classic: Whether you’re serving it as a layered taco salad casserole at a potluck or just feeding a hungry family, everyone will find a layer to love.
- Fully customizable: Go spicy or mild, add extra veggies, or swap in a plant-based protein — it’s easy to adapt.
- Visually stunning: Layered in a clear dish, this salad isn’t just delicious — it’s eye candy for your dinner table or party spread.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for the layered taco salad with ground beef. These ingredients are easy to find and totally customizable — feel free to make swaps to suit your taste!
For the Taco Meat
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (use halal-certified if needed)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade blend)
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Salad Layers
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped (or use romaine for extra crunch)
1 can (15 oz) refried beans (look for vegetarian or halal-friendly)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup guacamole or mashed avocado
1 cup salsa or pico de gallo
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
7 layer taco salad recipe
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
For the Layers
- 1 can 15 oz refried beans (vegetarian/halal)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole or mashed avocado
- 1 head iceberg lettuce chopped
- 1 cup salsa or pico de gallo
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/3 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups crushed Doritos or tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro for garnish optional
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, crumbling it with a spoon until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 4–5 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Layer the Ingredients
- In a large clear glass bowl or trifle dish, layer the ingredients in this order:
- Refried beans
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Seasoned ground beef
- Chopped lettuce
- Salsa
- Cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives
- Shredded cheese
Add Crunch
- Just before serving, sprinkle crushed Doritos or tortilla chips on top.
Garnish & Serve
- Finish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate (without chips) until ready to enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition Info :
- Protein: ~17g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbs: ~22g
Instructions
Follow these steps to build the ultimate layered taco salad recipe that looks amazing and tastes even better:
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Add olive oil to a skillet and warm it over medium heat. Once heated, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small bits as it browns evenly.
After the beef is fully cooked, drain off any extra grease. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and splash in some water, then stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 4 to 5 minutes, just until it thickens slightly. Set it aside to cool a bit before layering it into the salad.
2. Prepare the Base Layers
- In a clear glass dish (trifle bowl or casserole dish works great), spread the refried beans evenly across the bottom.
- Gently layer the sour cream on top, followed by guacamole or mashed avocado.
- Add the cooled taco beef as the next layer.
3. Add the Fresh Layers
- Sprinkle chopped lettuce evenly over the beef.
- Top with salsa or pico de gallo, then add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives.
- Finish with shredded cheese on top.
4. Crunch & Garnish
- Just before serving, sprinkle crushed Doritos over the top for extra texture.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Pro Tips & Variations
Want to make this layered taco salad recipe even better? Here are a few simple tips and fun variations to help you make it your own:
Pro Tips
- Keep it crisp: If you’re prepping ahead, layer the lettuce closer to the top and hold off on the Doritos until just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crunchy.
- Even layering: Use a glass bowl or trifle dish so everyone can see those beautiful layers. Plus, it makes scooping easier!
- Flavor boost: Warm your refried beans slightly before layering. This enhances texture and helps them spread more smoothly.
Easy Variations
- Make it meatless: Swap the ground beef for black beans or a plant-based crumble for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, hot salsa, or pepper jack cheese if you like a little heat.
- Healthier swap: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra protein and a lighter touch — a trick even the Layered Taco Salad recipe Pioneer Woman fans would love.
Serving Suggestions
This 7 layer taco salad with Doritos is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a party, weeknight dinner, or summer BBQ, here’s how to make the most of it:
- Potluck star: Serve it in a clear trifle dish so guests can admire the layers. It travels well and holds up beautifully at room temp for short periods.
- Main or side: Add a scoop next to grilled chicken or serve it on its own with extra chips — it’s hearty enough for a full meal.
- Individual portions: Layer the salad into mason jars or small cups for personal servings. Great for picnics or kids’ lunches!
- Taco night twist: Use this as a filling in taco shells or burrito wraps — it turns into a fun, hand-held version of the dish.
Conclusion
There’s a reason this dish never goes out of style — it’s simple, flavorful, and always a hit. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this layered taco salad recipe brings people together with every bite.
With bold flavors, fresh textures, and fun presentation, it’s more than just a salad — it’s a crowd-pleasing classic. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to for taco night from now on!
What are the 7 layers in taco dip?
A classic seven layer taco dip typically includes refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, tomatoes, and olives. Our version builds on that with seasoned ground beef and lettuce for a heartier salad-style twist.
What are the layers of a taco salad?
A layered taco salad recipe usually includes seasoned ground beef, refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, shredded cheese, and crunchy chips or toppings like olives and tomatoes.
What’s in a 7 layer salad?
Though traditionally more of a cold layered dish with lettuce, peas, eggs, cheese, and bacon, our taco-inspired version focuses on bold Tex-Mex flavors with a savory base of ground beef, refried beans, and sour cream.
How to make a 7 layer at Taco Bell?
Taco Bell’s 7-layer burrito inspired dish usually includes beans, rice, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese — a wrap-style version of the layered taco salad with refried beans we’ve created here.
What kind of lettuce do you use for taco salad?
Crisp iceberg lettuce is the most popular choice for its texture and freshness, but romaine or even a spring mix can work well if you want a slightly more nutrient-dense option.