Go Back
Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch Recipe

Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch

A crowd-pleasing dish that combines classic taco flavors with pasta, featuring vibrant ingredients like sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy Doritos. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or quick weeknight meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz rotini pasta or any preferred pasta shape
  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup corn canned or frozen
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper any color
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 cups crushed Doritos
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cutting Board and Knife
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  2. Step 2: Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef, following package instructions.
  3. Step 3: Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, seasoned beef, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, cheddar cheese, bell pepper, and red onion. Gently fold together.
  4. Step 4: Add the dressing: Pour ranch dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well incorporated.
  5. Step 5: Fold in the Doritos: Just before serving, gently fold in crushed Doritos to maintain their crunch.
  6. Step 6: Garnish and serve: If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

You can customize this salad with your favorite ingredients or dressing. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, but add Doritos just before serving to keep them crunchy.