Taco Pasta Salad

Taco Pasta Salad is a bold and zesty dish that combines the best of tacos and pasta salad into one irresistible meal. Packed with seasoned beef, crisp veggies, shredded cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, this dish is perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or an easy weeknight dinner. The tangy French dressing ties everything together, making each bite a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 16 oz rotini pasta (or other medium-sized noodle)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1.5 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup diced green bell pepper
• 2-3 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese
• 4 cups shredded lettuce
• 15 oz French dressing
• 3 cups slightly crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips
• Chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

• Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2:

• In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, crumbling it as it cooks.
• Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning. Allow the beef to cool slightly.

Step 3:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned ground beef, chopped tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, shredded cheese, and shredded lettuce.

Step 4:

• Drizzle in the French dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5:

• Just before serving, stir in the crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips to maintain their crispy texture.

Step 6:

• Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey or grilled chicken for a lighter option.
• Different Dressings: Swap French dressing with Catalina, ranch, or chipotle dressing for a flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or use spicy taco seasoning for extra heat.
• Extra Crunch: Mix in black beans, corn, or avocado for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Let the pasta and beef cool before mixing to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
• If making ahead, add the chips just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Taco Pasta Salad makes a great main dish or side for barbecues, potlucks, and family dinners. Serve it alongside grilled meats, quesadillas, or a refreshing fruit salad.

Tips

• Make Ahead: Prep all ingredients ahead of time but wait to add the chips and dressing until just before serving.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serving Cold: If serving straight from the fridge, let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before eating.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

1. Can I make Taco Pasta Salad ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing and chips until just before serving for the best texture.

2. What’s the best pasta shape for this salad?
   Rotini works great because its twists hold onto the dressing, but you can also use bowtie, penne, or elbow macaroni.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! While Mexican-style cheese works well, cheddar, Colby Jack, or a pepper jack blend would also be delicious.

4. How do I keep the chips from getting soggy?
   Stir them in right before serving to keep them crispy, or serve them on the side for guests to add as they eat.

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Taco Pasta Salad

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 16 oz rotini pasta (or other medium-sized noodle)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1.5 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup diced green bell pepper
• 2–3 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese
• 4 cups shredded lettuce
• 15 oz French dressing
• 3 cups slightly crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips
• Chopped cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Instructions

Step 1:

• Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2:

• In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, crumbling it as it cooks.
• Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning. Allow the beef to cool slightly.

Step 3:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned ground beef, chopped tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, shredded cheese, and shredded lettuce.

Step 4:

• Drizzle in the French dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5:

• Just before serving, stir in the crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips to maintain their crispy texture.

Step 6:

• Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Cooking Notes

• Let the pasta and beef cool before mixing to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
• If making ahead, add the chips just before serving to maintain their crunch.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sodium: 850mg
• Protein: 22g