Cowboy Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. This recipe combines bow tie pasta with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and scallions, all tossed in a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. The salad is best served cold and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy occasions. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and refresh with a bit of extra dressing if needed.
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.