How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for 3 Step Taco Salad?

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 lb lean ground beef, 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning, ¾ cup water, ⅔ cup nonfat sour cream, and more.

Is 3 Step Taco Salad suitable as salads?

Yes, 3 Step Taco Salad falls under the Salads category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover 3 Step Taco Salad?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

3 Step Taco Salad Recipe

Name: 3 Step Taco Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning; ¾ cup water; ⅔ cup nonfat sour cream; ⅔ cup bottled salsa; 8 cups shredded iceberg lettuce; 4 cups bite-sized baked corn tortilla chips; 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes, drained; 1 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this 3 Step Taco Salad is a must-try. Made with lean ground beef, taco seasoning, water and nonfat sour cream. Easy st…

This 3 Step Taco Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as lean ground beef, water, nonfat sour cream and bottled salsa. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 751 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It works as a light main on its own or as a starter alongside crusty bread, and it's just as good for a cozy night in as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers keep well, so it's a smart choice for meal prep too.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Salads

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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3 Step Taco Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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Frequently Asked Questions