Why Make This Recipe
Taco Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for those who love a mix of flavors and textures. It combines the classic tastes of tacos with pasta, making it a fun and filling meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it great for busy weeknights or potlucks. It’s colorful, tasty, and sure to please both kids and adults alike!
How to Make Taco Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup crushed Doritos
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain the fat and stir in the taco seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned meat, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, shredded cheese, and half of the crushed Doritos.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and salsa, then add to the pasta mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Just before serving, top with the remaining crushed Doritos and chopped cilantro if desired.
How to Serve Taco Pasta Salad
Taco Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish or a side dish. It’s great for BBQs, picnics, or family dinners. You can serve it cold or at room temperature. Just scoop it into bowls and enjoy!
How to Store Taco Pasta Salad
If you have leftovers, you can store Taco Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Just keep in mind that the Doritos may lose their crunch after a day in the fridge, so consider adding them fresh when you serve it.
Tips to Make Taco Pasta Salad
- Make sure to drain and rinse the pasta well to avoid it sticking together.
- Feel free to customize the ingredients by adding bell peppers, avocado, or other veggies.
- For extra flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour before serving.
Variation
You can make a Southwest version by adding ingredients like diced peppers, jalapeños, or switching the meat for shredded chicken. Use beans or quinoa for a meatless version.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as rotini or penne.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s a great meal prep option. Just store it in separate containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use black beans or lentils instead of meat and add more veggies for a delicious vegetarian dish.
Taco Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Vegetables and Mix-ins
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional) Can be omitted
- to taste Salt and pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed Doritos Add more just before serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain the fat and stir in the taco seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned meat, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, shredded cheese, and half of the crushed Doritos.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and salsa, then add to the pasta mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Just before serving, top with the remaining crushed Doritos and chopped cilantro if desired.