Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks or a satisfying family meal, this salad brings together the best of Tex-Mex flavors in a single bowl. Let's look at the ingredients you'll need to create this delicious dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Bow tie pasta: One 16-ounce box, cooked until al dente.
- Bacon: One pound, cooked and crumbled for a smoky, crispy texture.
- Lean ground beef: One pound, cooked and drained.
- Taco seasoning: One 1-ounce packet to flavor the beef.
- Corn: One 15-ounce can, drained, adding sweetness and crunch.
- Black beans: One 15-ounce can, rinsed and drained, providing protein and texture.
- Cherry tomatoes: One cup, sliced, for a fresh and juicy addition.
- Scallions: Half a cup, chopped, for a mild onion flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Two cups, for a rich, cheesy flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Boil the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble, then set aside. Drain most of the bacon grease, leaving a small amount in the skillet.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture is well combined and saucy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 4:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bacon, seasoned ground beef, drained corn, rinsed and drained black beans, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped scallions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 5:
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and mix well.
- Step 6:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to make the dressing.
- Step 7:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Step 8:
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Cowboy Pasta Salad cold for the best flavor. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, and BBQs.
- Pair with sides like guacamole, salsa, or a green salad to complement the Tex-Mex flavors.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes dry, refresh it with a little extra dressing or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- For make-ahead convenience, prepare the pasta, bacon, and beef separately. Combine them with the other ingredients just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Helpful Notes
- Variations: Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or black beans for a different protein option.
- Add-ins: Enhance the salad with extra ingredients like diced bell peppers, avocado, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
- Adjust the dressing: For a spicier kick, add a bit of hot sauce or chipotle powder to the dressing. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less barbecue sauce and more mayonnaise.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef's Tip: Ensure that all ingredients are chilled before combining to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Chef's Tip: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Chef's Tip: Use thick-cut bacon for a better texture, as it holds up well in the salad.