Taco Pasta Salad
This irresistible Taco Pasta Salad recipe is bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavor. This dish combines tender pasta with zesty homemade taco seasoning, creamy sour cream, and tangy ranch dressing. From there, it's topped with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese and crispy tortilla strips. This is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners.
Servings 5 servings
Calories 596kcal
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup diced onions I used red onions.
- 15.5 oz canned diced chilies and tomatoes Drained.
- 1 cup grated cheese Cheddar, Cheddar Jack, or Monterey Jack Cheese.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4-1/2 cup ranch salad dressing
- shredded lettuce
- tortilla strips or crushed chips
Homemade Taco Seasoning (You can also use store-bought seasoning blends if you wish).
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red cayenne pepper Optional for spicy.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in accordance with the instructions on the package.
- Rinse the pasta in cold water and dry completely.
- Use the same pot used for the pasta or use a skillet and place the pot/pan on medium-high heat. Add the diced onions.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef.
- Use a meat chopper or spoon to break down the ground beef. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add all of the spices/seasoning and diced tomatoes and chilies. Stir.
- Add the sour cream (or yogurt) and salad dressing to a large serving bowl. Stir to combine.
- Add in the cooked pasta, ground beef, and grated cheese. Stir to combine. Taste repeatedly and adjust the spices, salt, and pepper as necessary.
- Top with lettuce, tortilla strips, and any of your other favorite toppings.
Notes
If you plan to reheat the dish or save leftovers, I recommend storing the pasta separate from the ground beef. I personally prefer warm ground beef with a chilled salad. I also recommend storing toppings like lettuce separate as well.
For a creamier salad add more ranch or sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt).
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 596kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 33g