Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your pasta salad game with a deliciously creamy, flavorful twist? Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of two beloved dishes—tacos and pasta salad—creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This salad combines the tangy flavors of ranch dressing with the bold, zesty notes of taco seasoning, all tossed together with tender pasta, fresh veggies, and savory ground beef. It’s an ideal dish for potlucks, barbecues, or any casual gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, flavor-packed recipe!

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Creamy Ranch Dressing:

• 1 cup ranch dressing
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
2. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the packet of taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4. Simmer for 5 minutes until the seasoning is well incorporated and the liquid has reduced. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, taco seasoning, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, seasoned ground beef, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, green bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
2. Pour the creamy ranch dressing over the salad ingredients.
3. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Cooking Note

• Pasta: Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and to prevent it from sticking together.
• Ground Beef: Ensure the ground beef is well-seasoned and fully cooked before adding it to the salad for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Toppings: Garnish the salad with additional chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
• Side Dishes: Serve this pasta salad with grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a potluck spread.
• Leftovers: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks.

Tips

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less taco seasoning, or by including diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Texture: For added texture, consider adding diced avocado, chopped green onions, or shredded lettuce just before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including chilling time)

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings together the best of both worlds—creamy pasta salad and zesty tacos. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a picnic, or a potluck. The combination of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy ranch dressing creates a harmony of flavors that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love!

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