Taco Pasta Salad 🌮🥗🧀

Short Description

This Taco Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of taco night with hearty pasta, creating a cool, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a simple, satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and familiar: Enjoy the spiced taste of taco seasoning with playful pasta in every bite.

• Effortlessly versatile: Customize it with your favorite mix-ins—beans, corn, jalapeños—and serve it chilled or at room temperature.

• Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for prepping in advance, with flavors that develop beautifully over time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 oz rotini pasta (or any similar medium noodle)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 3 tbsp taco seasoning

• 1½ cups chopped tomatoes

• 1 cup diced green bell pepper

• 1 cup canned corn, drained

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup chopped red onion

• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Cook rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

2. Cook and season beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer briefly. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

3. Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper until creamy.

4. Assemble the salad: Add cooled pasta, seasoned beef, tomatoes, bell pepper, corn, black beans, red onion, and shredded cheddar to the dressing. Toss gently to combine.

5. Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning. Add optional toppings if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8 as a side, 4 as a main

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Chilling time: 30 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 55 minutes

Variations

• Chicken taco pasta: Substitute cooked, shredded chicken for the beef.

• Vegetarian version: Replace beef with extra beans or seasoned tofu.

• Spicy version: Add 1 diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

• Cheese alternative: Use pepper jack, monterey jack, or queso fresco.

• Fiesta crunch: Stir in crushed tortilla chips or ranch-flavored chips before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended (creamy dressings may separate).

• Serving: Stir before serving; add a splash of lime juice or a touch more mayo if it seems dry.

FAQs

1. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes—prepare everything and mix 1 hour ahead for optimal flavor. Just don’t add toppings until serving.

2. Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Certainly—it adds more fiber and a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.

3. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt or light sour cream work well for a lighter version.

4. Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes—use dairy-free cheese and substitute sour cream/mayo with plant-based alternatives.

5. How can I make it lighter?

Use lean ground turkey, low-fat yogurt, and skip cheese or use a lighter variety.

6. Can I serve it warm?

Absolutely—serve immediately after assembly for a warm version without chilling.

7. Can I add avocado without it browning?

Add sliced avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

8. How do I avoid sogginess?

Rinse the cooked pasta thoroughly and cool completely before combining with the dressing.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—simply double all ingredients to serve a larger crowd.

10. What sides pair well with this salad?

Serve with tortilla chips, grilled veggies, corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad.

Conclusion

Taco Pasta Salad brings together the best of tacos and pasta in a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to make, customize, and serve. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a fun weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to favorite for its simplicity, versatility, and bold flavors.

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