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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Savory Cowboy Pasta Salad That Everyone Will Love

Experience the delicious Cowboy Pasta Salad, a hearty and vibrant fusion that impresses at any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Farfalle Pasta or rotini or penne
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Ground Beef or ground turkey or plant-based alternative
For the Freshness
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved or chopped
  • 1 medium Red Onion or green onions
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro or parsley if preferred
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier option
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream or plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce to taste
For Flavor
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded, or Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • medium skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef for 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and mix for 2 minutes.
  3. Make the Dressing: Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, taco seasoning, and hot sauce in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and adjust seasoning.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl with the cooled pasta, add the beef, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Pour dressing and fold gently to combine.
  5. Add Cheese and Herbs: Mix in cheddar cheese and cilantro, ensuring they are well distributed. Adjust creaminess with more mayonnaise or sour cream if needed.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately at room temperature or chill for an hour. Enjoy warm or cold!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This pasta salad can be prepared a day in advance for best flavors. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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