Go Back
+ servings
Taco Pasta Salad

Taco Pasta Salad: A Flavor-Packed Twist on Tradition

Taco Pasta Salad is a flavor-packed dish perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Any pasta shape can be substituted.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Turkey or lentils can be used for lighter alternatives.
For the Flavor
  • 1 pkg Taco Seasoning Consider using a homemade mix.
For the Veggies
  • 1 can Black Beans Can swap with kidney beans or omit.
  • 1 cup Corn Canned, fresh, or frozen works.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced bell peppers can be a substitute.
  • 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce Romaine or spinach can elevate nutrition.
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Fiesta Blend Cheese Any cheese blend can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Catalina Dressing Ranch or Greek yogurt can be lighter alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a healthier option.
For the Crunch
  • 2 oz Nacho Cheese Doritos Any flavored tortilla chips can be used.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • spatula
  • whisk

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions, usually 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Brown the Beef
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess grease, sprinkle taco seasoning and add water if needed. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini, seasoned beef, drained black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and fiesta blend cheese. Toss gently to mix.
Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Catalina dressing and sour cream until smooth. Ensure a cohesive texture to coat the salad.
Mix the Salad
  1. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly.
Add Crunch and Greens
  1. Fold in the crushed Doritos and shredded iceberg lettuce just before serving for added crunch and freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Cool pasta completely before mixing to maintain freshness. Add Doritos just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!