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Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad

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This Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad is the ultimate fusion of bold taco flavors and creamy ranch dressing. Packed with pasta, seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and topped with crunchy tortilla chips, it’s the perfect side dish or light meal for any gathering. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale
  1. 16 ounces trottole pasta
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. 1 pound ground beef
  4. 1 packet taco seasoning
  5. 3/4 cup chunky salsa
  6. 3/4 cup ranch dressing
  7. 3/4 cup Catalina dressing
  8. 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
  9. 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  10. 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
  11. 1/2 cup diced red onion
  12. Tortilla chips, for serving
  13. 1 cup corn
  14. 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta:
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the trottole pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool completely.

  • Cook the ground beef:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease/liquid.

  • Season the beef:
    Add taco seasoning to the cooked ground beef and stir until thoroughly combined. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

  • Make the dressing:
    In a small bowl, combine salsa, ranch dressing, and Catalina dressing. Stir together to combine.

  • Assemble the salad:
    Once everything has cooled completely, add tomatoes, red onions, shredded cheese, lettuce, and dressing mixture to a large bowl. Toss everything together to combine.

  • Add the extras:
    Mix in crushed tortilla chips right before serving or serve them on the side to prevent them from getting soggy.

  • Serve and enjoy!
    Serve the Creamy Ranch Taco Pasta Salad and enjoy!

Notes

  • To add extra crunch, sprinkle more tortilla chips on top just before serving.
  • You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
  • If you want a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add black beans for protein.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://grandmarecipesflash.com/creamy-ranch-taco-pasta-salad/