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Flavorful Taco Pasta Salad with Ranch Beef

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A delicious and easy taco pasta salad combining ranch seasoned ground beef with pasta and fresh veggies, perfect for summer parties and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red and yellow mix)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Drain excess fat if needed. Sprinkle beef with ranch seasoning, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss cooled pasta with seasoned beef, cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, shredded cheddar cheese, and black olives if using.
  5. Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water to prevent overcooking and keep salad crisp. Drain beef fat well to avoid oily salad. Chill salad before serving for best flavor. Customize with additional veggies or proteins as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco pasta salad, ranch beef, summer salad, easy pasta salad, taco night leftovers, party salad

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/flavorful-taco-pasta-salad-with-ranch-beef-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-summer-parties/