Name: Cowboy Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Salad:; 16 ounces lean ground beef (90/10 preferred); 1 small yellow onion, minced; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 16 ounces dry pasta (rotini recommended); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; For the Dressing:; ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 limes, juiced; 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet); For the Salad Mix:; 12 ounces frozen corn (thawed) or 1 can (15 oz), drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (4 oz), grated or cubed; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 jalapeño, diced; 2 green onions, sliced; Garnish (Optional):; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Fresh parsley, chopped

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This hearty, flavor-packed Cowboy Pasta Salad is filled with ground beef, fresh veggies, and a zesty taco-seasoned dressing. It’s the perfect dish for potlucks, BBQs, or a fun weeknight meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Pasta Salad is everything you love about a hearty salad in one bowl. The ground beef adds protein, while the crunchy veggies, cheesy goodness, and zesty taco dressing take this dish to the next level. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make, making it perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a casual dinner. Cowboy Pasta Salad

Ingredients

For the Salad:
16 ounces lean ground beef (90/10 preferred)
1 small yellow onion, minced
½ teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
16 ounces dry pasta (rotini recommended)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Dressing:
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 limes, juiced
3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet)

For the Salad Mix:
12 ounces frozen corn (thawed) or 1 can (15 oz), drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (4 oz), grated or cubed
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, diced
2 green onions, sliced

Garnish (Optional):
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef and minced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain the grease, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Toss the cooked pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and set aside to cool.
Make the Dressing: In a large serving bowl, whisk together ½ cup olive oil, lime juice, and taco seasoning until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: Add the cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, corn, black beans, cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, jalapeños, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well combined.
Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding extra salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add black beans, chickpeas, or quinoa for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Extra Spice: Add more jalapeños or hot sauce to turn up the heat!

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Toss again before serving. The salad is best served cold and will keep its flavor for several days.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes even better when it sits for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze as the pasta and vegetables may get soggy when thawed. It’s best served fresh or after refrigerating for a day.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add cucumber, avocado, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Add extra jalapeños or some hot sauce to the dressing for a spicier flavor.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works great in this salad.

Conclusion

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty, delicious, and flavorful salad that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with protein, veggies, and a zesty dressing that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just want something quick and tasty, this salad is a winner!