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Homemade Homemade Wendys Taco Salad: A Hearty Fast Food Favorite Made Even Better recipe photo

Homemade Wendys Taco Salad: A Hearty Fast Food Favorite Made Even Better

This homemade taco salad is bursting with flavors! A perfect blend of seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and crunchy chips makes it a must-try!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Mixture:
  • 2 pounds ground beef seasoned
  • 1 quart tomato juice
  • 1 can (29-ounce) tomato puree
  • 1 can (15-ounce) red beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15-ounce) pinto beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Salad:
  • 24 ounces mesclun mix salad
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 8 ounces tortilla chips
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 8 tablespoons salsa

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving platter or bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks (about 8-10 minutes).
  2. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Stir in the tomato juice and tomato puree. Mix well to combine.
  3. Add the red beans and pinto beans to the skillet. Then, sprinkle in the diced celery, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mesclun mix salad with the diced tomatoes.
  5. In serving bowls or on a large platter, layer the salad base, then top with the beef mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by dollops of sour cream.
  6. Finish off your salad by scattering tortilla chips around the top and drizzling with salsa.

Notes

  • Customize the salad by adding your favorite toppings like avocado or grilled corn.
  • Store the beef mixture separately from the salad ingredients to maintain freshness.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste preference.