When it comes to potlucks, game-day spreads, or backyard cookouts, nothing beats a Seven-Layer Taco Salad. Bursting with color, texture, and bold Tex-Mex flavors, this dish is as fun to look at as it is to eat. The magic lies in the layering—each ingredient adds its own personality, and when you dig in with a big scoop, you get the perfect bite of everything!
Whether you serve it in a big glass bowl to showcase the layers or portion it into cups for individual servings, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup salsa or pico de gallo
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Optional extras: jalapeños, corn, cilantro, or hot sauce for spice lovers!)
Instructions
Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water.
Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Layer It Up:
In a large glass dish or trifle bowl, layer the ingredients in this order for the classic seven-layer look: Refried beans (spread evenly on the bottom).
Guacamole.
Sour cream.
Salsa or pico de gallo.
Taco-seasoned ground beef & black beans.
Shredded lettuce. Shredded cheese.
Top with diced tomatoes, olives, and green onions for garnish.
Chill & Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping or spoon it onto plates.
Tips & Variations
Make it lighter: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra protein. Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and double up on black beans and corn. Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance—just add the lettuce and cheese last so they stay fresh. Individual servings: Layer ingredients in mason jars or cups for grab-and-go portions.
🥑 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for parties: It feeds a crowd and always disappears fast. Versatile: Customize the layers to match your taste (spicy, mild, or vegetarian). Colorful & fun: It looks as good as it tastes—truly a showstopper dish.
👉 Bottom line: This Seven-Layer Taco Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience of flavors and textures that brings people together. Crunchy, creamy, cheesy, and fresh—it’s a fiesta in every bite! 🎊