Taco Pasta Salad
To make Taco Pasta Salad, cook the pasta, cool it slightly, toss it with ground beef, cheddar, and lettuce, and dress it while the noodles can still absorb some flavor. It works because the pasta gets seasoned before the chill dulls everything down.
This taco pasta salad tosses cooled pasta with seasoned ground beef, cheddar, and lettuce in a zesty dressing for a potluck side with real Tex-Mex flavor. It's a good change from the usual mayo-based pasta salad.
It's a good potluck side dish or make-ahead lunch. Toss it together once the pasta has cooled so the cheese doesn't melt.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces short pasta
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups ground beef
- 1 cup cheddar
- 1 cup lettuce
- 1/3 cup dressing or vinaigrette
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1Cook the pasta in well-salted water until just past al dente, then drain and rinse briefly to stop the carryover cooking.
- 2Combine the cooled pasta with ground beef, cheddar, and lettuce in a large bowl.
- 3Toss with the dressing while the pasta is still slightly warm so it actually absorbs some flavor.
- 4Chill for at least 20 minutes if you want the flavors to settle together.
- 5Taste again before serving because cold pasta always wants a little more salt or acid.
Pro Tips
- Salt the pasta water properly or the salad tastes sleepy no matter what else you do.
- Dress once while warm and again lightly before serving if it dried out.
- Keep the add-ins bite-size so each forkful has a chance at balance.
Substitutions
Storage Instructions
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Make Ahead
This gets better after a short chill, so it is a strong make-ahead option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Taco Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes. This gets better after a short chill, so it is a strong make-ahead option.
How do I store leftover Taco Pasta Salad?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Taco Pasta Salad?
Usually not if the recipe depends on crisp vegetables or creamy dressing. Taco Pasta Salad is better refrigerated than frozen.
What should I serve with Taco Pasta Salad?
Taco Pasta Salad works best with simple sides or toppings that support the main texture instead of competing with it.