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Pioneer Woman Cowboy Pasta Salad

Pioneer Woman Cowboy Pasta Salad - recipe card
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This hearty cowboy pasta salad features tender rotini tossed with seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and a zesty, creamy dressing. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed main dish or side that’s perfect for potlucks and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) dry rotini pasta
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean, no pork)
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, cored and diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, cored and diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta; set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, diced onion, red and green bell peppers, thawed corn, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated. The salad should be creamy but not overly saucy; add a splash of milk or water if it seems too thick.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may be absorbed. To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or enjoy cold. This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. Freezing is not recommended as the creamy dressing and vegetables will lose texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy pasta salad, pioneer woman pasta salad, pasta salad with ground beef, hearty pasta salad, American pasta salad, summer pasta salad, potluck pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, ground beef recipes, easy dinner

Find it online: https://inspiredbypioneerwoman.com/pioneer-woman-cowboy-pasta-salad-recipe/