Description
The Seven-Layer Taco Salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and satisfying dish that brings Tex-Mex flavors to the forefront in a fun and visually appealing format. Whether you’re prepping for a summer barbecue, potluck, or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this salad delivers both in taste and appearance. You can keep it vegetarian with refried beans or make it heartier with seasoned ground beef. No matter how you layer it, this dish is guaranteed to please a crowd.
Ingredients
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1 can (15 oz) refried beans or 1 lb ground beef
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1 cup sour cream
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1 cup chunky salsa
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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2 cups shredded lettuce
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1 cup diced tomatoes
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1/2 cup sliced black olives
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base Layer
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Refried Beans Option: Heat gently over medium heat until warm and spreadable.
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Ground Beef Option: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the beef. Add salt, black pepper, and half the cumin and garlic powder. Cook until fully browned and fragrant. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Make the Sour Cream Spread
In a bowl, mix sour cream with the remaining cumin and garlic powder. This creates a tangy, creamy layer that complements the spicy and savory flavors in the salad.
Step 3: Layer the Salad
Use a glass trifle bowl or a large clear dish to show off the beautiful layers.
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Spread the refried beans or seasoned ground beef on the bottom.
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Spoon the sour cream mixture evenly over the base layer.
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Add a layer of chunky salsa over the sour cream.
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Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Top with shredded lettuce.
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Add diced tomatoes and sliced black olives.
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Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for freshness.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Notes
Balance is key! Don’t overload any single layer to ensure that every bite includes a bit of each flavor. Use even, smooth layers for the best presentation and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes