Trash Bag Taco Salad

4.50 from 2 votes

Trash Bag Taco Salad is perfect for large parties or potlucks. It's easy to prepare and makes clean-up a breeze. Loaded with taco meat, shredded lettuce, and all the trimmings for a sure crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Main Entree, Salad

Cuisine: American

Servings: Servings

Calories: 278kcal

Author: Lalaine Manalo

Ingredients

For the Taco Meat

3 pounds ground beef
1 onion, peeled and chopped
3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 cup water
3 packets (1 ounce each) taco seasoning mix

For the Salad

3 iceberg lettuce, shredded
5 tomatoes, seeded and chopped,
1 large onion, peeled and diced
2 cans (15 ounces each) ranch-style beans, drained
1 cup sliced olives, drained
16 ounces corn chips
16 ounces Catalina salad dressing
1 1/2 cups salsa
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

For the Taco Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook, breaking into pieces with the back of the spoon, for about 3 to 5 minutes or until it begins to release fat. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add onions and garlic and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until beef lightly browns and onions and garlic are softened.
Add water and taco seasoning mix. Stir until well-dispersed. Bring to a boil.
Lower heat and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 7 to 10 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.

For the Salad

In a trash bag or very large container, combine taco meat, lettuce, beans, olives, corn chips, salad dressing, salsa, and cheese.
Gently toss until well-distributed. Transfer to serving container.

Notes

Due to the large amount of ingredients, a clean trash bag is traditionally used to combine and transport the salad to picnics and potlucks. You can, of course, use a large container if available.
You can cool the seasoned beef completely before tossing it with the rest of the ingredients or use it warm. Make sure to simmer the meat until most of the liquid is absorbed to keep the excess moisture from making the chips and veggies soggy.

Nutrition