Cowboy Pasta Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and hearty ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. This recipe has been a cherished staple at our family gatherings for years, always evoking memories of summer picnics, backyard barbecues, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Combining smoky bacon, seasoned ground beef, and a tangy, creamy dressing with fresh vegetables and pasta, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of cowboy flair to your next meal or simply want to try something new, this Cowboy Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Let me share a recipe that has been a hit at our family gatherings for years! This Cowboy Pasta Salad combines hearty ingredients and a tangy dressing for a dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It brings back fond memories of summer picnics and backyard barbecues. Try it out and add a touch of cowboy flair to your next meal!

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Author: Hannah

Ingredients

Scale

1 (16 oz) box of bow tie pasta: The base of the salad, providing a satisfying texture and bite.
1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a smoky, crispy element that complements the other flavors.
1 pound lean ground beef, cooked and drained: The protein-packed addition that gives the salad its hearty, cowboy-inspired feel.
1 ounce packet taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with a zesty kick, bringing the flavors together.
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained: Adds a sweet crunch and bright color to the salad.
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Provides a rich, earthy flavor and boosts the salad’s nutritional value.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced: Offers a fresh, juicy burst of flavor in every bite.
1/2 cup scallions, chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: A generous amount of cheese brings a creamy, melty texture to the salad

Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing, giving the salad a smooth, rich consistency.
1/4 cup barbecue sauce: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that ties the ingredients together.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings a deep umami taste, rounding out the dressing’s flavor profile.

Instructions

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the bow tie pasta until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set it aside.
Prepare the Salad Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, cooked ground beef, taco seasoning, drained corn, black beans, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped scallions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Add the Pasta: Once the pasta is cool, add it to the large mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to reach the perfect temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

This Cowboy Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that works well as a main course or a side. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Why We Love It:

This recipe is a hit because it’s both flavorful and easy to make. The combination of smoky bacon, seasoned beef, and a creamy, tangy dressing creates a delicious balance that appeals to everyone. The fresh vegetables add brightness and texture, making the salad feel light despite its hearty ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a new dish to bring to your next gathering or just want to try something different for dinner, this Cowboy Pasta Salad is sure to impress. It’s a tried-and-true favorite that continues to be a family staple, and once you try it, you’ll understand why!

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a dish that delivers on both flavor and satisfaction, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. The combination of hearty ingredients and a tangy, creamy dressing creates a unique and delicious experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether served as a side at a barbecue or as a main course for a casual family dinner, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. With its easy preparation and versatile appeal, Cowboy Pasta Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition in the making, one that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.

Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe

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