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Cowboy Pasta Salad

Savor the Flavor: Irresistible Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe

This Cowboy Pasta Salad is a vibrant blend of flavors, perfect for gatherings and fully customizable to satisfy all cravings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Protein
  • 1/2 pound lean ground beef Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 pound smoked sausage kielbasa or andouille Use turkey sausage for a leaner choice.
  • 6 slices bacon Can be replaced with turkey bacon or omitted for a vegetarian version.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Any fresh tomatoes can work if needed.
  • 1 cup whole kernel corn Frozen corn works nicely if fresh isn’t on hand.
  • 1 cup black beans Chickpeas can be substituted for variety.
  • 1/2 medium red onion Green onions can be a milder alternative.
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese Substitute with pepper jack for some extra heat.
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro Omit if not preferred and use parsley instead.
  • 1 whole jalapeño pepper Adjust according to spice tolerance or omit for a milder salad.
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can replace it for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream Substitute with additional mayonnaise or plain yogurt.
  • 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce Choose a sugar-free option for less sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Any mustard can work in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice Lemon juice can also be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can also be used if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Use regular paprika for a milder flavor.
  • Salt and black pepper Adjust according to taste preferences.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside. Add the smoked sausage and sauté until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, and lime juice. Whisk until smooth. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, meats, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, cheddar cheese, and onion. Include jalapeño and cilantro. Pour the dressing over and toss until well-coated.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Toss before serving and enjoy either chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For better flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Adjust spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeño used.

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