Description
If you’re searching for a surefire way to elevate your dinner game, look no further than this delightful Cheesy Taco Pasta Salad.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the uncooked rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it reaches al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and ensure to rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- While your pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s well browned, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and add a splash of water, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of the beef with the spices.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini and the seasoned ground beef. Let it sit for a moment to cool slightly—this prevents the cheese from melting when added. Next, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and lettuce. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are well mixed. The bright colors will call to your guests!
- Now, it’s time for the dressing! Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt, ensuring each component is well-coated. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix again until everything is evenly distributed. This creamy element enhances the dish’s richness and flavor profile.
- Top your salad with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and freshness. Serve it warm for a comforting meal or refrigerate and enjoy it chilled for a refreshing take. This dish is sure to impress at any gathering!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sour cream and lettuce separate to maintain their texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Protein: 22 g