This Cowboy Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to bring to your next BBQ, potluck, or family gathering. Packed with bacon, seasoned beef, and a zesty dressing, it’s a hearty and flavorful salad that’s sure to please a crowd. The combination of tender pasta, savory meat, and fresh veggies, all tossed in a creamy dressing, makes it an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad:
- 1 (16 oz) box bow tie pasta: Adds the perfect texture and holds the dressing well.
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled: Provides a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the dish.
- 1 pound lean ground beef, cooked and drained: Adds a hearty, protein-packed element to the salad.
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with a robust, southwestern flavor.
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained: Adds a sweet and juicy crunch.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds fiber and a mild earthy flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced: Provides a burst of freshness and color.
- ½ cup scallions, chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor and a touch of brightness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the salad, adding a rich, cheesy taste.
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the dressing.
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the salad.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and a hint of umami to the dressing.
Directions
1. Cook Pasta:
- Start by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool. This ensures the pasta absorbs the dressing better without becoming mushy.
2. Prepare Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the salad from becoming greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning, then set the beef aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, seasoned ground beef, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, scallions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss everything together until well mixed.
4. Make Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well-combined. This dressing adds a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor to the salad.
5. Combine:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Make sure all the ingredients are well-mixed and that the dressing is evenly distributed.
6. Chill:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly.
7. Serve:
- Serve the Cowboy Pasta Salad chilled, and enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish with friends and family. It’s perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Calories: Approx. 600 kcal per serving
Tips for the Best Cowboy Pasta Salad
- Add Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, add diced avocado just before serving.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead of time. The flavors will meld together overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Conclusion
Cowboy Pasta Salad is the ultimate combination of hearty, cheesy, and zesty flavors. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. With its mix of textures and flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.