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Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch

If you're on the lookout for a fun, flavorful, and easy dish to serve at gatherings or enjoy on a cozy night in, look no further than Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch. This delightful recipe combines the comforting heartiness of pasta with all the bold flavors of a taco, topped with the irresistible crunch of Doritos.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup corn drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 cups Doritos crushed
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Serving spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet and brown until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning according to the packet instructions, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  4. Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, seasoned beef, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, cheddar cheese, red onion, and black olives.
  5. Step 5: Pour ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until well coated.
  6. Step 6: Gently fold in the crushed Doritos, reserving a handful for topping later.
  7. Step 7: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with reserved Doritos and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

This salad can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just add the crushed Doritos right before serving to maintain their crunch.