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–+ servings
Cowboy Pasta Salad

Savor Summer with this Creamy Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe

This Cowboy Pasta Salad combines creamy texture and bold taco-inspired flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Farfalle Pasta Substitute with rotini or penne if preferred.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can be swapped with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based options.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Swap for diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions can be a gentler alternative.
  • 1 cup Corn Use fresh, frozen, or canned.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Feel free to use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Omit or substitute with parsley if not preferred.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substituting with Greek yogurt adds a tangy profile.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Plain yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar White vinegar works well as a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Consider homemade seasoning for a personal touch.
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Skillet
  • medium bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain, rinse in cold water, and set aside.
  2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet for 6-8 minutes, draining fat and mixing in taco seasoning. Cool slightly.
  3. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl, adding taco seasoning and hot sauce.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, beef, corn, tomatoes, and onion gently.
  5. Pour the dressing over the mixture, fold in cheese and cilantro, ensuring everything is coated.
  6. Adjust consistency with more mayonnaise or sour cream as needed, then serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Make-ahead the salad a day in advance but add dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.

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