Name: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85% lean); 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (low sodium); 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sliced black olives; ½ cup diced red onion; 1 avocado, diced; ⅓ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro; Salt and pepper to taste

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Hey y'all! If you're looking for a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that fits your low carb lifestyle, this Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing is a total game changer. It's loaded with seasoned beef, crisp veggies, and a lusciously tangy dressing—ideal for quick weeknights, packed lunches, or entertaining friends who crave something fresh. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

Super quick to whip up (just 30 minutes from start to finish).
Packed with protein, healthy fats, and tons of flavor—satisfies cravings!

Gluten-free and keto-friendly, making it perfect for low-carb lifestyles.
Customizable for meal prep, parties, or family dinners.
No soggy lettuce thanks to a hearty base and creamy, tangy dressing.

Ingredients for the Best Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (sugar-free)

½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder

1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup sliced black olives
¼ cup diced red onion
½ avocado, diced

Creamy Dressing:
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, extra lime wedges

How to Make Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Taco Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Sprinkle in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Salad Base

While the beef cooks, chop the romaine lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the onion and olives. Dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Taco Salad Bowls

Divide chopped lettuce among 4 large bowls. Top each with seasoned beef, cherry tomatoes, cheddar, black olives, onion, and avocado.
Generously drizzle each bowl with creamy dressing, then garnish with your favorite toppings.

Notes & Helpful Tips for Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

For extra crunch, try a handful of keto tortilla chips as a topping.
If meal prepping, store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh.
Choose a good-quality taco seasoning without added sugars (see how to make your own at EatingWell).

Variations on Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

Chicken Taco Salad: Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast.
Vegetarian Version: Use crumbled tofu or a low-carb meatless ground instead of beef.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt and vegan cheese for a creamy, dairy-free salad bowl.

Required Equipment

Large skillet
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

Mixing bowls (small and medium)
Spatula

Storage Instructions for Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge.

Salad (without dressing or avocado) lasts up to 3 days; add avocado and dressing just before serving.
Heated beef keeps well for 3-4 days; reheat gently before assembling your bowl.

Serving Recommendations for Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

Pair with sparkling water and fresh lime wedges for a refreshing meal.

Serve alongside guacamole and extra veggies for a party platter.
Great as a meal prep lunch or a light dinner with cauliflower rice on the side.

Pro Tips for Amazing Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Creamy Dressing

Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to keep your salad light and not greasy.

Chop lettuce finely for the best texture and even distribution of toppings.
For a thicker dressing, chill it for 10-15 minutes before drizzling over the salad (Delish Taco Salad Tips).