why make this recipe
Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the best of taco night and pasta salad. It’s easy to make, perfect for a crowd, and packed with tasty ingredients. Whether you need a dish for a picnic, potluck, or just a family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The crunchy Doritos add a delightful twist, making it not just a meal but a complete snack experience.
how to make Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 pound rotini pasta
- 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning
- 1/2 yellow sweet pepper (chopped)
- 1/4 small white onion (diced)
- 1/2 pint grape tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce (shredded)
- 1/2 cup French dressing
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cup nacho cheese Doritos (crushed)
Directions:
- In a pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Drain most of the grease, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and set the mixture aside to cool.
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, rotini, chopped sweet pepper, diced onion, grape tomatoes, shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, French dressing, and sour cream. Toss until everything is well combined.
- Add the crushed Doritos and gently mix again.
- Garnish with a dollop of sour cream on top and enjoy!
how to serve Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad
Serve the Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. You can add extra crushed Doritos on top for a crunchy finish. This dish can also be served with a side of tortilla chips or additional dressing if desired. It’s a great option for a casual family dinner or a fun party dish!
how to store Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad
To store any leftovers, keep the Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it, consider keeping the crushed Doritos separate until serving. This way, they’ll stay crunchy.
tips to make Doritos Locos Taco Pasta Salad
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the salad.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Make it vegetarian by swapping out the meat for black beans or additional veggies.
variation
You can customize this pasta salad by adding ingredients like corn, black olives, or avocado. You can also use different types of cheese like pepper jack for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the crushed Doritos until you’re ready to serve to keep them crunchy.
What can I substitute for taco seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can make your own with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check the taco seasoning and French dressing labels for gluten-free options.