Description
This Taco Pasta Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish combining seasoned ground beef, rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, cheddar cheese, and a zesty Catalina dressing, all topped with crunchy Nacho Doritos. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, it offers a satisfying blend of textures and southwest-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Pasta & Vegetables
- 8 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente according to package instructions
- 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded, finely diced
- 1 medium Roma tomato, finely diced
- 1 can (15.25 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- ½ cup (74.5 g) red bell pepper, finely diced
- ½ cup (80 g) yellow onion, diced
Dairy & Dressing
- 2 cups (226 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (272 g) Catalina dressing
Toppings
- 1 bag (9.25 ounces) Nacho Doritos, slightly crushed, reserving a few for topping
- Diced iceberg lettuce, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Season the Meat: Add the taco seasoning to the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Once seasoned, set the meat aside to cool slightly.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, diced jalapeño pepper, diced Roma tomato, drained corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, diced yellow onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and the seasoned taco meat.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Pour the Catalina dressing over the combined ingredients. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Doritos Before Serving: When ready to serve, add the slightly crushed Nacho Doritos to the salad and toss carefully to mix them in without completely breaking them down.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the salad with extra Doritos and diced iceberg lettuce if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier salad, include some of the jalapeño seeds or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- To keep the Doritos crunchy, add them just before serving.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead; store without Doritos and add them before serving.
- Using mild cheddar will give a creamier texture, but you can substitute with sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
