Description
A flavorful and easy Taco Pasta Salad combining seasoned ground beef, pasta, cheese, salsa, and crunchy Doritos, perfect for a crowd-pleasing chilled dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or pork)
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 oz taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Pasta and Vegetables
- 16 oz medium-sized pasta shells (or any short pasta)
- 1/2 head of lettuce, chopped
Dairy and Condiments
- 9 oz sharp cheddar or any Mexican style cheese, grated
- 1 cup salsa
- 8-12 oz Western dressing (French or Catalina dressing can substitute)
Crunchy Topping
- 14.5 oz bag of Nacho Cheese Doritos (use about half the bag or less)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted boiling water just until al dente. Immediately drain and run under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the taco meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the taco seasoning and water, then let simmer for a few minutes until combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, seasoned taco meat, grated cheese, and salsa thoroughly.
- Add the finishing touches: When ready to serve, stir in chopped lettuce, crushed Doritos, and Western dressing. Mix well and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This salad can be prepared up to one day ahead; mix all ingredients except chips, lettuce, and dressing and refrigerate.
- Add chips, lettuce, and dressing just before serving to maintain crunch and freshness.
- Any short pasta such as rotini or penne can be substituted for the shells.
- Western dressing is preferred for authenticity, but French or Catalina dressings are good alternatives.
- Use lean ground meat to reduce grease and fat content.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
