Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 46 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Description

This Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Featuring tender pasta combined with seasoned ground beef, creamy ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and fresh veggies, it’s a delicious blend of Tex-Mex and comfort food flavors served chilled.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb rotini or bowtie pasta (cooked and drained)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water (to use with taco seasoning)
  • 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Ground Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or turkey. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
  3. Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup water as per the seasoning packet instructions. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until fully combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta, the seasoned ground meat, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, and any optional ingredients like diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and corn. Gently stir everything together to combine thoroughly.
  5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed to your preference.
  6. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and serve well chilled.
  7. Serve: Once chilled, serve the creamy ranch taco pasta salad cold and enjoy this refreshing and hearty dish.

Notes

  • For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
  • Feel free to customize the optional veggies or add others like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
  • This salad tastes even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
  • Use homemade ranch dressing to reduce preservatives and add a fresh touch.
  • Great for meal prep, picnic lunches, or potluck gatherings.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/creamy-ranch-taco-pasta-salad-recipe/