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30-Minute Taco Pasta Salad

A quick and easy salad that combines the flavors of tacos with pasta, loaded with fresh ingredients and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 370

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beef
  • 8 oz pasta (rotini or shell)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
Vegetables and Dressing
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
  • 1 each bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning and a bit of water (as directed on the package) and cook until fragrant.
Mixing
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned beef, cherry tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and lime juice, then pour over the pasta salad.
  3. Toss everything to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chilling
  1. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  2. Serve cold or at room temperature, with optional toppings like avocado or extra cheese.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, and mix in more ranch dressing or a squeeze of lime juice if it’s a bit dry.
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