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–+ servings
Taco Pasta Salad

Crunchy Taco Pasta Salad That's a Party Favorite

This vibrant Taco Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, combining fresh ingredients and savory flavors into an easy, delicious dish perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Best Recipe Ideas
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Feel free to swap with other small pasta shapes.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Turkey or a meat alternative can be used.
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning Adjust spice level to taste.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced bell peppers can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Green Onions Shallots can be a substitute.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Mild cheddar or a cheese blend can be used.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Mozzarella can be used as a milder alternative.
For the Dressing & Topping
  • 1 cup Catalina Dressing Any creamy dressing can work instead.
  • 2 cups Doritos (Nacho Cheese) Tortilla chips can be used as a substitute.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Optional, can substitute with parsley.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat, stir in taco seasoning, and set aside to cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini, ground beef, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, and both cheeses. Drizzle with Catalina dressing and toss to coat.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let flavors meld together.
  5. Just before serving, mix in crushed Doritos and cilantro. Serve chilled as a side or main dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, serve the salad in a colorful bowl and garnish with extra cheese or cilantro.

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