Cowboy Pasta Salad is a fun and delicious dish that brings together the flavors of the West in every bite! This hearty salad is a great choice for picnics, potlucks, or any family meal. With a mix of pasta, veggies, and tasty meats, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This Cowboy Pasta Salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also full of flavor and texture. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe fits perfectly. Plus, it’s a dish that can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even tastier meal!
How to Make Cowboy Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/8 tsp pepper flakes
- 1 lb smoked bacon
- 1 can sweet corn
- 1 oz black beans
- 2 1/4 cups tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onion, sliced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until it’s browned.
- Stir in the pepper flakes and smoked bacon, cooking until the bacon becomes crispy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the ground beef mixture, sweet corn, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and sliced green onions.
- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese so everything is well mixed.
- You can serve it right away, or chill it in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing taste.
How to Serve Cowboy Pasta Salad
You can serve Cowboy Pasta Salad warm or cold. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or a filling main dish on its own. Garnish with extra green onions or some fresh herbs for an added touch!
How to Store Cowboy Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Tips to Make Cowboy Pasta Salad
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a kick, add more pepper flakes according to your taste.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by leaving out the ground beef and bacon and adding more beans and veggies. You can also use different types of cheese based on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cowboy Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect to make a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and let the flavors mingle overnight.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or rotini.
3. How spicy is this salad?
The pepper flakes give it a mild kick. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
