Name: Taco Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Twist!
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef: Provides a rich source of protein and ensures the salad remains filling.; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Brings a burst of flavor with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, giving the dish its signature zest.; 8 ounces rotini pasta (cooked al dente): Serves as the hearty base, offering a delightful chewiness that complements the other ingredients.; 1 medium jalapeño (seeded, finely diced): Adds a spicy kick, balancing the sweetness of other vegetables.; 1 medium Roma tomato (finely diced): Provides freshness and a juicy texture that lightens up the dish.; 1 can (15.25 ounces) corn kernels (drained): Introduces sweetness and a vibrant color.; ½ cup red bell pepper (finely diced): Contributes sweetness and crunch.; ½ cup yellow onion (diced): A base flavor that adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.; 2 cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded): Rich and creamy, cheese adds indulgence to the dish.; 1 cup Catalina dressing: A tangy dressing that unifies all flavors, adding moisture and zest.; 1 bag (9.25 ounces) Nacho Doritos (slightly crushed, reserve some for topping): Adds crunch and a unique flavor that ties the dish back to traditional taco elements.; Diced iceberg lettuce (optional for garnish): Provides color and a crunchy texture as an optional garnish.

Description

Taco Pasta Salad—pasta, seasoned meat, cheese, and veggies in a creamy dressing. A delicious and satisfying dish, perfect as a main or side.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef: Provides a rich source of protein and ensures the salad remains filling.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Brings a burst of flavor with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, giving the dish its signature zest.
8 ounces rotini pasta (cooked al dente): Serves as the hearty base, offering a delightful chewiness that complements the other ingredients.
1 medium jalapeño (seeded, finely diced): Adds a spicy kick, balancing the sweetness of other vegetables.
1 medium Roma tomato (finely diced): Provides freshness and a juicy texture that lightens up the dish.
1 can (15.25 ounces) corn kernels (drained): Introduces sweetness and a vibrant color.
½ cup red bell pepper (finely diced): Contributes sweetness and crunch.
½ cup yellow onion (diced): A base flavor that adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
2 cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded): Rich and creamy, cheese adds indulgence to the dish.
1 cup Catalina dressing: A tangy dressing that unifies all flavors, adding moisture and zest.
1 bag (9.25 ounces) Nacho Doritos (slightly crushed, reserve some for topping): Adds crunch and a unique flavor that ties the dish back to traditional taco elements.
Diced iceberg lettuce (optional for garnish): Provides color and a crunchy texture as an optional garnish.

Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to crumble the meat as it cooks.
Add the Taco Seasoning: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside.
Prepare the Pasta: While the beef is cooking, boil water in a large pot. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini, 1 medium jalapeño (seeded and finely diced), 1 medium Roma tomato (finely diced), 1 can of corn kernels (drained), ½ cup of finely diced red bell pepper, ½ cup of diced yellow onion, and 2 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese. Add the taco meat and 1 cup of Catalina dressing. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Finish with Doritos: Just before serving, add the slightly crushed Nacho Doritos to the salad, reserving some for topping. Toss gently to combine.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle with additional crushed Doritos and optional diced iceberg lettuce for garnish. Serve immediately for the best texture!