Description
Taco Pasta Salad combines the best of tacos and pasta, creating a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, elbow macaroni, or shells)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Cook the meat: While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and a splash of water if needed. Stir until the meat is coated with the seasoning. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, taco sauce, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a little more lime juice or water if needed.
- Combine the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned meat, shredded cheese, bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, black olives, corn, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If serving chilled, you can add a little extra dressing before serving if needed.
Notes
- This salad is great for BBQs and potlucks.
- Customize with your favorite taco toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Taco Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Taco Salad