This hearty and flavorful Cowboy Pasta combines bold Tex-Mex flavors with pasta to create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or game day gatherings!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and barbecue sauce. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 500 kcal per serving (approx.)
Servings: 6 servings
Cowboy Pasta is the ultimate fusion of comfort food and barbecue-inspired flavors. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!