Description
This Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning, creamy ranch dressing, and al dente pasta, making for a deliciously fresh and satisfying side dish. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any casual gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb rotini or bowtie pasta (cooked and drained)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water (to use with taco seasoning)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool down. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it apart with a spatula. Once browned and fully cooked, drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water, following the instructions on the seasoning packet. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes until fully combined and heated through. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned ground meat, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and corn. Stir everything together gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- You can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to add additional toppings like crushed tortilla chips or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
- For a spicier kick, you can add jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the salad.
- This salad works well as a side dish or as a main dish for a lighter meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: Stirring, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg