Description
A vibrant and flavorful Taco Pasta Salad combining seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, crispy Doritos, fresh lettuce, and a zesty Western dressing tossed with al dente pasta shells. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a refreshing meal on a warm day, this dish blends classic Tex-Mex flavors with a cool pasta salad twist.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 2 lbs ground beef (ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted)
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 oz taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Pasta and Cheese
- 16 oz medium-sized pasta shells (any short pasta will work)
- 9 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated (or any Mexican style cheese)
Fresh and Crunchy Ingredients
- 1/2 head lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup salsa
- 7.25 oz nacho cheese Doritos (about half the 14.5 oz bag)
Dressing
- 8-12 oz Western dressing (French or Catalina dressing can be used if Western dressing is unavailable)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare Taco Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion. Drain excess grease if necessary. Add taco seasoning and water, then simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, taco meat, grated cheese, and salsa until well combined.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, add the chopped lettuce, crushed Doritos chips, and dressing to the bowl. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Serve chilled and enjoy your taco pasta salad!
Notes
- This salad can be prepared up to one day in advance by completing steps 1 through 3. Add the lettuce, chips, and dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
- You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef for a lighter or different protein option.
- Use any short pasta shape you prefer if shells are not available.
- If Western dressing is unavailable, French or Catalina dressing are good alternatives.
- For extra crunch, add more Doritos or serve some on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
