Introduction
This Taco Pasta Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. It combines the hearty, familiar flavors of tacos with the cool, easy-to-serve format of a pasta salad. You get a satisfying, protein-packed meal that comes together in about the time it takes to boil the pasta.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 8 oz short pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (1 packet)
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup French or Catalina dressing
Instructions
- Cook the 8 oz of short pasta according to package directions for *al dente*. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the 1 lb of lean ground beef with the 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning (one packet) and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned ground beef mixture, 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup (4 oz) of shredded cheddar cheese, and the 15 oz of drained and rinsed black beans.
- Pour the 1 cup of French or Catalina dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Variations
- Make it a Dip: Pulse the fully assembled salad a few times in a food processor for a chunky texture, then serve with tortilla chips for scooping.
- Hot & Cold: For a warm version, skip chilling and toss the warm ingredients with the dressing, serving immediately while the cheese is melty.
- Layered Salad: Instead of tossing, layer the ingredients in a clear trifle bowl starting with pasta, then beef, beans, tomatoes, and cheese for a striking presentation. Drizzle the dressing over the top just before serving.
- Serving Style: Instead of a main dish salad, use a small scoop to serve it as a hearty side dish for grilled meats like chicken or fajitas.
Tips for Success
- Rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water is crucial—it stops the cooking and prevents the pasta from absorbing all the dressing and becoming mushy.
- Allow the cooked ground beef to cool slightly before mixing it with the fresh ingredients; this keeps the vegetables crisp and the cheese from melting completely.
- For deeper flavor, let the dressed salad rest in the refrigerator for an hour or two before serving.
- Reserve a small handful of cheese and tomatoes to sprinkle on top of the finished salad for a more visually appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, consume cold, as reheating can cause the pasta to soften and the cheese to become oily. If you prefer it slightly warmed, do so gently in the microwave in short bursts.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta shape like rotini, penne, or bowties will work well in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the entire salad up to 24 hours in advance. For the best texture, add the dressing and mix just before serving.
Is there a substitute for French or Catalina dressing?
While those dressings give the signature sweet-and-tangy flavor, a zesty Italian or a creamy avocado ranch dressing can be used for a different taste profile.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for an equal amount of ground turkey or chicken and cook it the same way with the taco seasoning.
Why do you rinse the beans?
Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and the starchy liquid they are packed in, which can muddy the flavor and appearance of your salad.
My salad seems a bit dry after chilling. What should I do?
The pasta continues to absorb dressing. Simply stir in an extra tablespoon or two of your chosen dressing before serving to refresh it.
