Go Back
Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch Recipe

Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch

If you're searching for a fun, flavorful dish that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a weeknight dinner, look no further than this Taco Pasta Salad with Doritos Crunch. Combining the beloved flavors of classic tacos with the satisfying texture of pasta, this salad is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. The addition of crushed Doritos provides a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish. In just under an hour, you can whip up this colorful salad that bursts with freshness and flavor, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup corn drained
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup lettuce shredded
  • 1 cup Doritos crushed
  • ½ cup ranch dressing
  • ½ cup salsa
  • Salt and pepper

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to cool.
  2. Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces for even cooking. Once browned, drain the excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and follow package instructions for adding water, if necessary. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, cooked ground beef, 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup corn (drained), 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup shredded lettuce. Gently fold the ingredients to mix without breaking the pasta.
  4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup ranch dressing and ½ cup salsa until well combined. This dressing adds a creamy yet zesty flavor to the salad.
  5. Step 5: Pour the ranch and salsa mixture over the pasta salad. Toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Step 6: Just before serving, sprinkle 1 cup of crushed Doritos on top of the salad. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

If you're preparing this salad in advance, add the crushed Doritos right before serving to keep them crunchy!