Mom’s Frito Taco Salad is the kind of crowd-pleasing dish that always disappears fast at potlucks and parties. Crunchy Fritos, hearty seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, and tangy-sweet Catalina dressing combine for a salad that’s bold, flavorful, and fun. It’s a nostalgic favorite with fresh, simple ingredients that everyone loves.
Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a picnic, this taco salad is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Frito Taco Salad
Loaded with Flavor: Sweet, salty, tangy, and savory in every bite. Perfect for Potlucks: Easy to transport and serve. Kid & Crowd Approved: Tasty, familiar ingredients everyone enjoys. Quick Assembly: Ready in just 25 minutes. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep components in advance for fast serving.
Time Needed
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 5–6
Ingredients
- 8–10 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2.5 tbsp homemade)
- 1 can black or pinto beans, drained (pinto preferred)
- 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cups Fritos corn chips
- Catalina dressing, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions, black olives
How to Make Frito Taco Salad
1️⃣ Cook the Meat
Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Add taco seasoning and stir to coat. Avoid breaking up the meat too small—bigger chunks are tastier. Drain excess grease if needed.
2️⃣ Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and cooked meat.
3️⃣ Dress & Toss
Add Catalina dressing and toss to coat evenly. Stir in Fritos just before serving to keep them crispy.
4️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Top with extra Fritos and optional green onions or olives. Serve immediately.
Make-Ahead Tips
- For Parties: Store cooked meat, beans, and corn together. Keep lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese separate. Assemble on-site.
- Don’t Mix Fritos Early: Add them right before serving to keep their crunch.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 504
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 29g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 14g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different dressing?
Yes! French dressing is a close alternative, or try a chipotle ranch for a spicier twist.
2. What kind of cheese works best?
Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well.
3. Can I use leftover taco meat?
Absolutely! Leftover seasoned beef or turkey is perfect for this salad.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free taco seasoning and Fritos (they’re typically gluten-free).
5. How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the meat and double the beans or add meatless crumbles.
Final Thoughts
Mom’s Frito Taco Salad is proof that simple ingredients can make a serious impact. It’s fresh, crunchy, satisfying, and fun to eat—a guaranteed hit for gatherings and an easy win for dinner. Keep it in your go-to recipe file and watch it become a family favorite!
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Mom’s Frito Taco Salad with Catalina Dressing
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5–6 servings 1x
Description
Mom’s Frito Taco Salad is a potluck classic packed with seasoned beef, crunchy Fritos, crisp lettuce, and sweet-tangy Catalina dressing. Easy, flavorful, and always a hit!
Ingredients
- 8–10 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2.5 tbsp homemade)
- 1 can black or pinto beans, drained (pinto preferred)
- 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cups Fritos corn chips
- Catalina dressing, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions, black olives
Instructions
- Brown ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Add taco seasoning and stir to coat. Keep meat chunky. Drain excess grease if needed.
- In a large bowl, mix lettuce, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and cooked meat.
- Add Catalina dressing and toss to coat. Stir in Fritos just before serving to retain crunch.
- Top with more Fritos and optional green onions or olives. Serve immediately.
Notes
Keep components separate if prepping ahead. Add Fritos last to avoid sogginess. Try French dressing or chipotle ranch for a twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 504
- Sugar: 14g
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
Keywords: frito taco salad, potluck salad, taco salad with catalina dressing, mom’s taco salad