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Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos

Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos for Ultimate Crunchy Flavor

Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos combines Tex-Mex flavors into a quick, family-friendly meal perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Ground Beef can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta cook until al dente
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning high-quality seasonings enhance flavor
  • 1 cup Catalina Dressing use Kraft or other premium brands
  • 4 oz Nacho Cheese Doritos use uncrushed for garnishing
  • 2 medium Tomatoes diced for moisture and freshness
  • 1 medium Onion both red and yellow onions work well
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels fresh or frozen; drain canned corn
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper any variety adds color and crunch
  • 1 small Jalapeño optional for heat
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese extra-sharp cheddar suggested

Equipment

  • skillet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water, mixing well to combine the flavors.
  3. Removed the skillet from heat and let the beef cool.
  4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the rotini pasta.
  5. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  6. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta and cooked ground beef.
  8. Add in the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), and shredded cheddar cheese.
  9. Drizzle the Catalina dressing over the ingredients and toss everything together ensuring the dressing coats all components.
  10. Fold in the crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos right before serving to retain their crunch.
  11. Garnish with whole Doritos and optional fresh lettuce leaves if desired.
  12. Serve immediately to enjoy the maximum flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best texture, add the Doritos right before serving and keep them separate if storing leftovers.

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