Description
Cowboy Pasta Salad recipe is kind of like a cross between a pasta salad and a loaded taco bowl. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. farfalle pasta, or other small pasta shape like rotini or shells
- 1 lb. ground beef, 85/15
- 2 tsp. taco seasoning mix, store-bought or homemade
- 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz.) can corn, drained
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream, full-fat for best texture
- 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp. taco seasoning
- 1 tsp. hot sauce, plus more to taste
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add farfalle and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute until well combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Drain excess fat if needed.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, taco seasoning, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
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Add beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and red onion to the pasta. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Fold in cheese, scallions, and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Cool the Beef: Adding hot beef to the salad can cause the dressing to separate. Let it cool slightly so everything blends smoothly.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I like to set leftovers out on the counter, allowing them to come to room temperature before serving. Then, just be sure to give the salad a stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
- Suggested Portion: This recipe makes enough to serve 8–12 people as a side dish, depending on portion size and what else is being served. For BBQs, potlucks, or gatherings with multiple dishes, plan on about 1 cup per person.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 427
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 438.8 mg
- Fat: 20.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 39.1 g
- Protein: 21.5 g
- Cholesterol: 51.8 mg