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Cowboy Pasta Salad

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.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 lb Small Pasta (like cellentani) Feel free to substitute with rotini or fusilli.
For the Meat
  • 1 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 Dressing
  • 1 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 Mustard
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 1/2 tsp Hot Chili Sauce Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
For the Veggies
  • 1 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 Cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Choose sharp or mild variety.
Spices & Seasoning
  • 1 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 pot
  • medium skillet
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Notes

Refrigerate 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.

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