Cowboy Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
Introduction
Cowboy Bacon Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings. Packed with smoky bacon, seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and a tangy BBQ mayo dressing, this salad combines bold flavors with satisfying textures.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) box bowtie pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can corn (drained)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 8 ounces cubed cheddar cheese
- 1 large diced red bell pepper
- 1 bunch chopped green onion
- 1 diced jalapeno
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 1¼ cups mayonnaise
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and brown the ground beef for 7 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Step 3: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned ground beef, cooked and crumbled bacon, halved grape tomatoes, drained corn, rinsed black beans, cubed cheddar cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onion, and diced jalapeno.
- Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and ground cumin until smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Step 6: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately. If not serving right away, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain freshness.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of chili powder in the dressing.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add more diced jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- To keep the salad creamy but lighter, swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.
Storage
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving. Reheat is not recommended; enjoy cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Bacon Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all ingredients in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works well, you can use rotini, penne, or any short pasta you prefer for this salad.
PrintCowboy Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
Cowboy Bacon Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a smoky BBQ mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a satisfying meal, this salad balances savory, spicy, and fresh elements in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 1 (12-ounce) box bowtie pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can corn (drained)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 8 ounces cubed cheddar cheese
- 1 large diced red bell pepper
- 1 bunch chopped green onion
- 1 diced jalapeno
- chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Dressing
- 1¼ cups mayonnaise
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and brown the lean ground beef for about 7 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the beef is thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned ground beef, cooked and crumbled bacon, halved grape tomatoes, drained corn, drained and rinsed black beans, cubed cheddar cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onion, and diced jalapeno.
- Make Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and ground cumin until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the combined pasta salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the salad with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. If not serving right away, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more diced jalapeno or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the dressing.
- Bacon can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for convenience.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead by preparing all components separately and tossing with dressing just before serving.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you require a gluten-free diet.
- Adjust seasoning and ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Keywords: bacon pasta salad, cowboy pasta salad, bowtie pasta salad, ground beef pasta salad, BBQ pasta salad, summer salad, picnic dish, easy pasta salad
