Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.1 pound ground beef or turkey
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning, 1/2 cup water
- In a large serving bowl, spread out the shredded romaine lettuce evenly.6 cups shredded romaine lettuce
- Sprinkle the crushed Fritos corn chips over the lettuce. Next, add the cooked taco meat.1 bag (9 to 11 ounces) Fritos corn chips, 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- Scatter the chopped tomatoes, red onion, and sliced black olives over the taco meat. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.2 cups chopped tomatoes, 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1/2 cup sliced black olives, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, salsa, and lime juice (if using) until well combined.1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup salsa, 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Drizzle the creamy taco dressing over the salad just before serving. Add any additional optional toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or cilantro as desired.sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, cilantro
Notes
To store your Frito Taco Salad leftovers, it's best to keep the components separate to maintain the crispiness of the Fritos and lettuce. Refrigerate the cooked taco meat, chopped vegetables, and shredded cheese in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Store the dressing separately, also in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, assemble your salad fresh. Place a bed of lettuce, add the refrigerated taco meat, vegetables, and cheese, and then top with a generous sprinkle of Fritos and your prepared dressing. If you find your Fritos have lost some of their crunch, you can quickly crisp them up on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Freezing this salad is not recommended as the textures of the lettuce and Fritos will suffer.
