What makes taco pasta salad a good option for a party?

Taco pasta salad is a great party dish because it's easy to make in large quantities, travels well, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional pasta salads.

Can I prepare taco pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, taco pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it often tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together in the refrigerator. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

What are some variations I can try with this taco pasta salad recipe?

You can easily customize this recipe to your liking! Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by using different types of salsa or adding jalapenos.

How long does taco pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

Taco pasta salad will typically last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before serving.

Taco Pasta Salad Recipe – Easy, Proven Cold Pasta Salad

Name: Taco Pasta Salad Recipe: The BEST Cold Pasta Salad EVER!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)n1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)n1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce)n1 cup mayonnaisen1 cup sour creamn1/2 cup salsan1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drainedn1 can (15 ounces) corn, drainedn1 red bell pepper, dicedn1/2 red onion, dicedn1 cup shredded cheddar cheesen1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantronOptional toppings: avocado, tomatoes, jalapenos

Description

A flavorful pasta salad with taco seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, cheese, and a creamy salsa dressing. Perfect for potlucks and barbecues!

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)n1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)n1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce)n1 cup mayonnaisen1 cup sour creamn1/2 cup salsan1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drainedn1 can (15 ounces) corn, drainedn1 red bell pepper, dicedn1/2 red onion, dicedn1 cup shredded cheddar cheesen1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantronOptional toppings: avocado, tomatoes, jalapenos

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.nIn a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.nStir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.nIn a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and salsa.nAdd the cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cheddar cheese, and cilantro to the bowl.nGently toss everything together until well combined.nCover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.nBefore serving, give it another toss and add any desired toppings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 75mg