Description
This Taco Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of Mexican flavors and a classic pasta salad. Packed with taco-seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, BBQs, and weeknight dinners. It’s easy to make, loaded with fresh ingredients, and can be customized to your taste!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for topping)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup taco sauce (or salsa)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Cook the Beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning and water, stir, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, taco sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine pasta, cooked beef, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, bell pepper, green onions, cheese, and olives.
- Mix in the Dressing – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. Before serving, top with chopped lettuce (if using) and crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier dressing.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra beans.
- Add avocado or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Best served chilled, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.