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Taco Pasta Salad

Taco Pasta Salad: The Irresistible Crunchy Comfort Dish


  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A hearty and flavorful taco pasta salad combining ground beef, pasta, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy Catalina dressing, topped with crushed Doritos for crunch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente according to package instructions
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded, finely diced
  • 1 medium Roma tomato, finely diced
  • 1 can (15.25 ounces) corn kernels, drained
  • ½ cup (74.5 g) red bell pepper, finely diced
  • ½ cup (80 g) yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cups (226 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (272 g) Catalina dressing
  • 1 bag (9.25 ounces) Nacho Doritos, slightly crushed, reserving a few for topping
  • diced iceberg lettuce, optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add taco seasoning to the beef and stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, jalapeño, tomato, corn, red bell pepper, onion, and shredded cheese.
  4. Add the seasoned ground beef and Catalina dressing to the bowl. Mix well.
  5. Gently fold in the crushed Doritos, reserving a few for topping.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  7. Garnish with additional Doritos and diced lettuce if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, use hot taco seasoning or add extra jalapeños.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: taco pasta salad, Mexican pasta salad, easy taco salad