Easy Taco Pasta Salad
A flavorful and colorful pasta salad that combines taco-seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing for a perfect dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 8 oz Pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 oz) Black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup Scallions, chopped
- 1 cup Ranch dressing
- 1-2 tsp Hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare all your ingredients by having them ready at your workstation.
Cooking Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
Cooking Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add taco seasoning, mix with a little water, and simmer for a couple of minutes.
Combine Ingredients
- Drain and rinse the cooked pasta, then combine it in a large mixing bowl with the beef, cherry tomatoes, black beans, cheese, and scallions.
Dressing and Final Touches
- Pour ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper, tasting to adjust as needed.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving
- Serve chilled with optional additional toppings like cheese or scallions.
Notes
Adding fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance flavor. This dish can be made ahead of time for the best results.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3g
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