Chopped Taco Salad with Creamy Jalapeño Dressing

This recipe for Chopped Taco Salad with Creamy Jalapeño Dressing is packed with flavor, texture, and a bit of spice. Perfect for a summertime meal!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 lb Lazy T Ranch Ground Beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade*)
• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional, for crunch)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

For the Creamy Jalapeño Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeded for less heat
• 1 garlic clove
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2–4 tbsp water (to thin out if needed)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
• Drain excess fat, add taco seasoning, and a splash of water.
• Simmer until well coated and slightly saucy. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Dressing

• In a blender or food processor, combine:
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Jalapeños
• Garlic
• Lime juice
• Cilantro
• Cumin
• Blend until smooth.
• Add water, 1 tbsp at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or more lime as needed.

3. Assemble the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine:
• Chopped romaine
• Tomatoes
• Black beans
• Corn
• Red onion
• Avocado
• Cheese
• Cooked taco meat
• Toss gently to mix.

4. Dress It Up

• Drizzle the creamy jalapeño dressing generously over the salad.
• Toss again or serve the dressing on the side.

5. Top & Serve

• Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips and chopped cilantro on top.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Homemade Taco Seasoning (Optional)

Mix:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne (optional)