Here’s a hearty and flavorful recipe for Cowboy Pasta Salad, packed with bold flavors that are sure to be a hit at any gathering:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) rotini or penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for heat)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Cook the beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, BBQ sauce, mustard, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, cheddar cheese, and jalapeño (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Garnish with fresh cilantro and extra cheese if desired.
This Cowboy Pasta Salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a hearty side dish, combining creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors with lots of texture. Enjoy!