Hearty Tex-Mex Pasta Dish (Printable Format)
A robust, all-in-one pasta salad loaded with ground beef, bacon, corn, beans and cheese, dressed in a tangy BBQ-ranch sauce - perfect for feeding a crowd.
# What You'll Gather:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
8 oz rotini or elbow pasta
02 -
1/2 pound ground beef
03 -
1 teaspoon chili powder
04 -
Salt and pepper to taste
05 -
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
06 -
1 cup canned corn, drained
07 -
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
08 -
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
09 -
1/2 cup red onion, diced
10 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
11 -
1/2 cup chopped green onions
→ For the dressing
12 -
1/2 cup ranch dressing
13 -
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
14 -
1 tablespoon lime juice
15 -
Salt and pepper to taste
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
02 -
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with chili powder, salt, and pepper until browned. Drain excess grease and let cool slightly.
03 -
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef, bacon, corn, black beans, tomatoes, red onion, cheese, and green onions.
04 -
In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
05 -
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well combined.
06 -
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
# Important Tips:
01 -
Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
02 -
Add diced avocado or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.
03 -
This salad can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
04 -
Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a complete meal on its own.