This 30-Minute Taco Pasta Salad combines bold taco flavors with hearty pasta for the perfect quick dinner or potluck favorite. Seasoned ground beef, black beans, sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, and juicy cherry tomatoes are tossed with pasta and coated in a creamy ranch-salsa dressing. It’s colorful, satisfying, and ready in just half an hour making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or summer gatherings. If you love taco night but want something fun and fresh, this easy taco pasta salad recipe delivers big flavor fast.
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Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients List
Pasta & Protein
- 8 ounces pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Dressing & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup salsa
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (optional garnish)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Colander
- Measuring cups & spoons
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta 🍝
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef 🌮
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink, breaking into crumbles.
Drain excess grease.
Stir in taco seasoning and prepare according to package directions.
3️⃣ Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, seasoned beef, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
4️⃣ Make the Dressing 🥣
In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and salsa until smooth.
Pour over pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Pro Tips
- Make It Lighter: Substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed tortilla chips just before serving.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
- Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or hot salsa for heat.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 400 | 25g | 45g | 15g | 5g | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
30-Minute Taco Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and stir in taco seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, seasoned beef, black beans, and shredded cheese.
- Whisk together ranch dressing and salsa, then pour over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
This 30-Minute Taco Pasta Salad brings taco night and pasta night together in one bold, satisfying dish. Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll make again and again.