Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen last week, the sun streaming through the window, I felt that familiar tug of nostalgia for summertime cookouts and gatherings. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Cowboy Pasta Salad—a perfect blend of tender pasta, crispy bacon, and savory ground beef all embraced by a tangy BBQ-mayonnaise dressing. This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch up proteins or dressings based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re packing it for a potluck or serving it as a main course for a cozy dinner, this easy preparation will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into a recipe that captures the spirit of good times and great food? Let’s get cooking! Why is Cowboy Pasta Salad a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: This Cowboy Pasta Salad offers a delightful mix of smoky bacon, savory ground beef, and fresh tomatoes, all coated in a creamy BBQ-mayonnaise dressing. Versatility: Switch between proteins like shredded chicken or ground turkey, and experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite combo. Effortlessly Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish can be whipped up quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or cookouts, your friends and family will be raving about it, making it a guaranteed hit! Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance, let the flavors meld overnight, and serve it cold for an even tastier experience. For other refreshing side dishes, be sure to check out this Watermelon Cucumber Salad or a zesty Tomato Salad Refreshing. Cowboy Pasta Salad Ingredients • Time to gather your flavors! For the Pasta Small Pasta (1 lb, like cellentani) – Adds structure and bulk to the salad; feel free to substitute with rotini or fusilli for a similarly delightful texture. For the Meat Bacon (1 lb, cooked and crumbled) – Provides a smoky flavor; consider using turkey bacon for a lighter twist. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Adds protein and richness; swap it for shredded chicken if you prefer a lighter option. For the Dressing Mayonnaise (1 cup) – Acts as the creamy base for the dressing; Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier variation. BBQ Sauce (1/4 cup) – Provides sweetness and tang; a sweeter version enhances the flavor, and homemade BBQ sauce is a great alternative. Spicy Brown Mustard (2 tbsp) – Adds tanginess to the dressing for that extra kick. Worcestershire Sauce (2 tbsp) – Enhances umami flavor, making your salad even more savory. Hot Chili Sauce (2 1/2 tsp) – Adds spice and heat; adjust according to your tolerance level. For the Veggies Sweet Corn (1 can, 15 oz, drained) – Contributes sweetness and texture; fresh or frozen corn can also be used for a vibrant touch. Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups, halved) – Provides freshness and juiciness; you can substitute with diced bell peppers for a crunchy bite. Diced Scallions (about 4) – Adds brightness and crunch; red onion is a nice alternative for a different flavor profile. For the Cheese Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups) – Brings creaminess and richness to the dish; choose a sharp or mild variety based on your taste. Spices & Seasoning Cumin (1 tsp) – Enhances depth of flavor; you may omit it if you prefer a milder salad. Red Pepper Flakes (pinch) – Adds heat; feel free to adjust the amount or leave it out based on your preference. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste. Gather these ingredients and get ready to create a Cowboy Pasta Salad that will impress everyone at your next gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Pasta Salad Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 pound of small pasta, such as cellentani, and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled, then toss with a drizzle of olive oil. Place the pasta in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef In a medium skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add 1 pound of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart into small crumbles as it browns, about 6-8 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste for flavor. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and let it cool before transferring it to the refrigerator. Step 3: Prepare the Dressing In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons of spicy brown mustard, and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. For a spicier kick, mix in 2 1/2 teaspoons of hot chili sauce, adjusting the spice level according to your taste preferences. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Once the pasta and beef are cooled, it’s time to assemble your Cowboy Pasta Salad. In the same bowl with the dressing, add the chilled pasta, crumbled bacon, cooled ground beef, drained sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced scallions. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, showcasing a colorful mix. Step 5: Chill and Serve Transfer the Cowboy Pasta Salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you have time, letting it chill overnight will enhance the taste even more. When ready to serve, give it a quick toss and enjoy the vibrant combination of flavors and textures that make this pasta salad a crowd-pleaser! How to Store and Freeze Cowboy Pasta Salad Fridge: Store your Cowboy Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best served chilled, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the salad for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that the pasta and veggies may lose their texture upon thawing. Reheating: If serving leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir before enjoying. If it’s too thick, add a little extra BBQ sauce or mayonnaise to freshen it up. Preparation Tip: Consider making the salad ahead of time for gatherings; those extra hours in the fridge truly enhance its taste! Expert Tips for Cowboy Pasta Salad Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the overall taste. Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all ingredients, especially the pasta and cooked beef, are fully cooled before combining to maintain that perfect texture in your Cowboy Pasta Salad. Customization: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins like shredded chicken or even tofu to cater to various dietary preferences and make this dish your own. Adjust Spice Levels: If serving kids or those who prefer milder flavors, consider reducing the amount of hot chili sauce or omitting red pepper flakes for a kid-friendly option. Serving Size: This recipe makes plenty! Consider halving the ingredients if you’re serving a smaller gathering or want to keep leftovers to a minimum. Dress It Up: For a creamier texture, feel free to add an extra 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, or try mixing in a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy kick. Cowboy Pasta Salad Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Cowboy Pasta Salad and make it your own with these delicious twists! Shredded Chicken: Swap ground beef for shredded chicken for a lighter meal. This variation provides a delicious alternative, perfect if you’re watching your red meat intake. Turkey Bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon for a healthier option. You’ll still get that savory flavor while cutting down on fat. Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, like feta for a tangy kick or pepper jack for a spicy twist. Each cheese brings its unique flair to the salad! BBQ Sauce Variety: Try using various BBQ sauces. Sweet, smoky, or spicy ones can completely transform the flavor profile. Your taste buds are in for an adventure! Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or even roasted zucchini for extra crunch and color. Vegetables enhance the freshness, adding a pop of nutrition to every bite. Lighter Dressing: For a healthier dressing, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. It adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with BBQ. Chickpeas Addition: Include canned chickpeas for an extra protein boost. They add a lovely texture and heartiness, making this salad even more satisfying. Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. These not only enhance the flavor but also add a burst of color and vibrancy. As you can see, this Cowboy Pasta Salad is all about personalization—much like an excellent potluck dish! For more delightful recipes that can complement your meal, you might enjoy this hearty Olive Garden Pasta or a light, refreshing Tzatziki Cucumber Salad. Happy cooking! What to Serve with Cowboy Pasta Salad? Elevate your meal experience with these delightful pairings that complement the heartiness of this vibrant pasta dish. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these skewers add protein and create a beautiful contrast to the creamy salad. Garlic Breadsticks: Their warm, buttery flavor is the perfect accompaniment for this pasta salad, inviting everyone to enjoy even more bites. Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the Cowboy Pasta Salad beautifully. Watermelon Slices: Sweet, juicy watermelon brings a light, summery touch that enhances your overall dining experience. Corn on the Cob: Char-grilled or boiled, corn on the cob echoes the sweet corn in the salad while introducing delightful textures. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like tangy lemonade or unsweetened iced tea cut through the creaminess of the dish, rounding out the meal perfectly. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies provide a sweet finish that leaves everyone smiling long after the meal is over. Fruit Salad: A bright, colorful fruit salad adds a burst of freshness and a delightful contrast of natural sweetness to your plate. Potato Chips: Crispy and salty chips offer a satisfying crunch, making them a fun and easy snack alongside the pasta salad. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a bright, fresh taste that complements the dish. Make Ahead Options These Cowboy Pasta Salad preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re planning a potluck! You can cook the pasta and ground beef up to 24 hours ahead. Simply let them cool, refrigerate them, and store them separately to maintain their texture. The dressing can also be made in advance (up to 3 days) and kept in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, combine the chilled pasta, beef, and dressing along with your other ingredients, and give it a good toss to coat everything beautifully. This not only saves you time but enhances the flavors, making your Cowboy Pasta Salad just as delicious as if it were freshly made! Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs What types of pasta work best in Cowboy Pasta Salad? Absolutely! I recommend using small pasta shapes like cellentani, rotini, or fusilli. These shapes hold up well against the hearty ingredients and ensure every bite is filled with flavor. How should I store leftover Cowboy Pasta Salad? Store your Cowboy Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, and the flavors will continue to meld the longer it sits! Can I freeze Cowboy Pasta Salad? Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Pasta Salad for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and veggies may not be the same once thawed. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving. What if my pasta is overcooked? If your pasta turns out mushy, I’d suggest reducing cooking time next time, aiming for al dente. To salvage slightly overcooked pasta, try mixing in some extra crispy ingredients like bacon or fresh veggies for added texture. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta varieties. You can substitute ground beef with a plant-based alternative like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version. Always check BBQ sauce ingredients if you have allergies, particularly for gluten or high fructose corn syrup. What should I do if I want to make the salad spicier? If you’re looking for an extra kick, simply increase the amount of hot chili sauce in the dressing or add more red pepper flakes. Alternatively, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to customize the heat to your liking. Cowboy Pasta Salad: A Flavor-Packed Picnic Favorite Cowboy Pasta Salad is a delicious blend of bacon, ground beef, and pasta in a tangy BBQ-mayonnaise dressing, perfect for gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 25 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 lb Small Pasta (like cellentani) Feel free to substitute with rotini or fusilli.For the Meat1 lb Bacon, cooked and crumbled Consider using turkey bacon for a lighter option.1 lb Ground Beef Can be swapped for shredded chicken.For the Dressing1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier variation.1/4 cup BBQ Sauce Homemade BBQ sauce is a great alternative.2 tbsp Spicy Brown Mustard2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce2 1/2 tsp Hot Chili Sauce Adjust according to your spice tolerance.For the Veggies1 can Sweet Corn, drained Fresh or frozen corn can be used.2 cups Cherry Tomatoes, halved Substitute with diced bell peppers if desired.4 Diced Scallions Red onion is a nice alternative.For the Cheese1 1/2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Choose sharp or mild variety.Spices & Seasoning1 tsp Cumin May be omitted for a milder flavor.pinch Red Pepper Flakes Adjust according to preference.Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste. Equipment large potmedium skilletlarge mixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 pound small pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with olive oil and chill in the refrigerator. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, brown 1 pound ground beef for 6-8 minutes. Add 1 tsp cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Drain fat and let cool. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tbsp spicy brown mustard, and 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Mix in hot chili sauce. Combine Ingredients: Add cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, ground beef, drained sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced scallions to the dressing. Toss gently until well coated. Chill and Serve: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Toss before serving to enjoy the vibrant flavors. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 22gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesRefrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for enhanced flavor. Adjust spice levels for kids by reducing hot chili sauce or omitting red pepper flakes. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
