Description
Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish loaded with ground beef, crispy bacon, veggies, cheese, and pasta, all tossed in a creamy BBQ-ranch dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, shredded cheese, and green onions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and barbecue sauce.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra green onions or cheese if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- This salad can be made a day ahead for better flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg