Go Back
+ servings
Cowboy Pasta Salad

Cowboy Pasta Salad: A Creamy Dish for Summer Gatherings

Cowboy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish bursting with flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Cellentani Pasta Can substitute with rotini or fusilli.
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Smoked Bacon Can swap with turkey bacon.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can use ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels Fresh grilled corn preferred.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are a substitute.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Milder cheese can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Red onions can be used instead.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Can be replaced with more Greek yogurt.
  • 1/4 cup Barbecue Sauce A sugar-free version can be chosen.
  • 1 tablespoon Spicy Brown Mustard Yellow mustard is a common alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can substitute.
Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Can substitute with paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Coriander can be an alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste or omit.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Large serving bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the cellentani pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, barbecue sauce, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili sauce. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the chopped smoky bacon over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Transfer to paper towels, leaving some drippings in the skillet.
  4. In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the green onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir in the spices.
  5. In a separate dry skillet, char the corn kernels over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Set aside.
  6. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bacon, beef mixture, charred corn, halved tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Add bacon and tomatoes just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal taste, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Customize with other ingredients, if desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!