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Colorful taco pasta salad with ground beef, cheese, and Doritos in a bowl

Taco Pasta Salad

This Taco Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of a taco with pasta for a quick and delicious family favorite. With ingredients like ground beef, black beans, fresh veggies, and a unique French dressing twist, it's perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American, Tex-Mex
Servings 6 servings
Calories 630 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 8 oz rotini pasta cooked al dente

Meat

  • 1 lb ground beef cooked and drained
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning or to taste

Vegetables

  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup red onion diced

Cheese

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded

Dressing

  • 1 cup French dressing or Catalina dressing

Toppings

  • 1 cup Nacho Doritos crushed

Instructions
 

  • Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned beef, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Pour the French dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • Just before serving, sprinkle the crushed Nacho Doritos on top for added crunch.

Notes

This salad can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. It's a great make-ahead dish for gatherings. For a spicier version, consider adding jalapeƱos or using spicy taco seasoning.
Keyword Pasta Salad, Quick Meal, Taco