Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Taco Pasta Salad combining seasoned ground beef, pasta shells, cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, salsa, crunchy Doritos, and tangy western dressing for a perfect party dish or family meal served chilled.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 2 lbs ground beef (can substitute ground turkey, chicken or pork)
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 oz taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Pasta and Cheese
- 16 oz medium sized pasta shells (any short sized pasta will work)
- 9 oz sharp cheddar cheese or any Mexican style cheese, grated
Vegetables and Extras
- 1/2 head of lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup salsa
- 14.5 oz bag of nacho cheese Doritos (use about half the bag)
- 8-12 oz western dressing (French or Catalina dressing can be used as substitute)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted boiling water just until al dente. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.
- Prepare Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the taco seasoning and water, then let simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Mix Base Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, taco meat mixture, grated cheese, and salsa. Mix well.
- Add Final Ingredients: When ready to serve, add the crushed Doritos, chopped lettuce, and western dressing to the salad. Mix gently to combine fully. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- This salad can be made up to one day ahead. Prepare through step 3 then cover and refrigerate.
- Add chips, lettuce, and dressing just before serving to keep Doritos crunchy and lettuce fresh.
- Substitute taco seasoning with homemade blend for fresher taste.
- Use low-fat cheese and dressing for a lighter version.
- Leftover salad can be stored covered in refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
