Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad

Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad: A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish with a Fun Twist

When it comes to summer parties, game day gatherings, or the next potluck, a cold pasta salad is always a winning choice. But why settle for the average macaroni salad when you can enjoy a loaded cowboy pasta salad packed with bold flavors?

This hearty pasta salad is an easy dinner option that combines lean ground beef, black beans, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and cheddar cheese with a creamy dressing that has the perfect amount of kick.

Whether you’re looking for a great side dish or a full meal, this cowboy salad will become one of your favorite pasta salad recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe

• A great mix of flavors and textures – Creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender cooked pasta.
• A fun twist on a classic pasta salad – Think taco salad meets cowboy caviar pasta salad.
• Simple ingredients, easy prep – Quick meal prep using pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Perfect for meal prep – Store it in an airtight container for a quick grab-and-go option.
• A main dish or a great side dish – Serve it as an easy dinner or alongside barbecue favorites.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad:

• 1 lb. bowtie pasta
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• 1 tsp coarse ground black pepper
• 1 lb. 80/20 lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can of sweet corn, drained
• 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups halved or quartered cherry tomatoes
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro

For the Chipotle Lime Ranch Dressing:

• 3/4 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 tsp dill
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Juice from 1 lime
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional for extra spice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook pasta until al dente, following the instructions on the box.

Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool to room temperature before assembling the salad. I like to add a drizzle of olive oil to the pasta for added flavor.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat and season with taco seasoning. Stir well, then set aside to cool.

3. Char the Corn

Heat a griddle or large skillet over high heat. Add the drained corn and cook until slightly charred, stirring occasionally for about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Make the Chipotle Lime Ranch Dressing

In a food processor, blend together the mayo, sour cream, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, lime juice, and red pepper flakes.

Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a bit more chicken broth.

5. Assemble the Cowboy Pasta Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, taco-seasoned ground beef, charred corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and cilantro.

Pour the creamy dressing over the top and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

6. Chill and Serve

Cover the cowboy pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Cowboy Pasta Salad

• Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better flavor and texture.
• Add bell peppers for an extra crunch and more color.
• Want more heat? Increase the hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
• Make it ahead! This cold pasta salad gets better after a few hours in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

How to Store Loaded Cowboy Pasta Salad

To keep your cowboy pasta salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, mix in a little extra dressing before serving.

What to Serve with Cowboy Pasta Salad

This cowboy salad pairs well with BBQ favorites, grilled meats, or as a standalone full meal. It’s an excellent addition to summer parties, next potluck events, or game day feasts. Try serving it with:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Baked potatoes
• Classic coleslaw
• Garlic bread

Cowboy Pasta Salad vs. Other Popular Salads

While this cowboy pasta salad recipe is a crowd-pleasing side dish, here’s how it compares to other great recipes:

• Potato Salad – Creamy but heavier; cowboy pasta salad is a lighter alternative.
• Taco Salad – Similar flavors, but this pasta salad is heartier with the added pasta.
• Italian Pasta Salad – Lighter flavors with more meat and cheese in the pasta.

Final Thoughts

This cowboy pasta salad recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of great recipes. With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and the perfect amount of kick, it’s an easy dinner, a main dish, or a great side dish.

Whether you’re prepping for summer parties, meal prep, or the next potluck, this hearty pasta salad will be a huge hit with the whole family. Try it today and give your average macaroni salad a fun twist!

Looking For Other Delicious Side Dishes?

Bacon Ranch Potato Salad – A creamy and flavorful twist on classic potato salad, featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch dressing. Perfect for BBQs and picnics!

Smoked Mac & Cheese – A decadent, cheesy dish with a smoky flavor, made with a blend of cheeses and smoked to perfection. Ideal for comfort food lovers!

Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with crispy bacon and a tangy balsamic glaze for a deliciously savory side dish.

BBQ Baked Beans – A hearty and smoky dish with tender beans slow-cooked in a tangy, sweet, and spicy barbecue sauce. Great for potlucks and cookouts!

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