Dorito Taco Pasta Salad
This Dorito Taco Pasta Salad features seasoned ground beef, crispy nacho cheese Doritos, and fresh vegetables tossed with rotini pasta and tangy Catalina dressing, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week, this crowd-pleasing dish comes together in less than an hour and is sure to become a potluck favorite.
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Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 16 ounces rotini pasta tri-color or regular
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend for optimal flavor
- 1 ounce taco seasoning or homemade blend
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved for easy mixing
- 1/4 cup green onions thinly sliced, white and light green parts
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup Catalina dressing or similar tangy ranch alternative
- 2 cups nacho cheese Doritos crushed into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped, optional but recommended
- Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup black beans for added protein and texture
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- jalapeños sliced thin for a spicy kick
- avocado sliced just before serving to prevent browning
- lime juice a squeeze for brightness and depth
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked through.
- Add the Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir in 1/4 cup of water, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the meat evenly.
- Cool the Mixture: Transfer the seasoned beef to a plate and let it cool for about 5 minutes before adding it to the pasta salad to prevent the dressing from becoming too warm.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the rotini pasta, and cook according to package directions, typically 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente then drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and pour in the Catalina dressing, tossing gently until every piece is coated.
- Add the Beef and Vegetables: Fold in the seasoned ground beef, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, and both cheeses, stirring carefully to distribute ingredients evenly throughout.
- Fold in the Doritos: Just before serving, gently fold in the crushed nacho cheese Doritos and fresh cilantro to maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, or prepare up to 2 hours ahead for an even better taste.