Taco Salad (optional crock pot method)

1 lb.   lean ground beef

1/2 onion, chopped (optional)

1 Tbsp. Chili Powder

1/4 tsp. Garlic Powder

1/4 tsp. Onion Powder

1/4 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (or less if you like less spice)

1/4 tsp. Dried Oregano

1/2 tsp. Paprika

1 1/2 tsp. Ground Cumin

1 tsp. Salt

1 tsp. Black Pepper (optional)

(OR 1 pkg.  Taco Seasoning Mix)

¼ cup  water

1 large head of lettuce (I like Romain or the “Spring Mix” at Costco)

2 tomatoes, chopped

1 cup  Shredded Cheddar Cheese

tortilla chips, Ranch Dressing, Salsa, olives, avocados etc

1- Brown meat with onions in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat; drain.

*You can also put the raw (fresh or frozen) ground beef in the crockpot with the chopped onion and all the spices and cook it on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours, drain off grease and skip to step 3.

2- Add spices and water; mix well. Bring to boil. Simmer on medium-low heat 3 min.

3- Cut and wash lettuce, tomatoes, olives, avocados and any other desired toppings.  

4- Have everyone make their own salad how they like it and enjoy.

Taco Seasoning recipe from: http://www.foodrenegade.com/homemade-taco-seasoning/