Discover the ultimate Cowboy Pasta Salad recipe! Packed with bold flavors, ground beef, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for cookouts and family dinners

Why you will love this recipe

Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as bold as it is delicious? Cowboy pasta salad is the perfect solution! This flavorful recipe combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing with a hint of tangy barbecue sauce. It’s a versatile dish that works as a side for your next cookout, a filling lunch, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with protein, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures, this salad is sure to become a family favorite. The greatest part is that it’s simple to prepare and can be tailored to match your preferences. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

At WikiDishes, cowboy pasta salad holds a special place in our hearts because it embodies everything we love about sharing meals—flavor, simplicity, and togetherness. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue with neighbors or a potluck with family, this dish has a way of bringing people closer. Its bold, hearty ingredients remind us of comfort food favorites, while the creamy dressing adds just the right touch of indulgence. For us, it’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of good company and great flavors. We’re excited to share this timeless classic with you, hoping it becomes a cherished part of your gatherings too!

Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe Card

Recipe by WikiDishesCourse: SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

For the Salad :
6 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
½ lb ground beef
½ cup corn kernels (canned or fresh)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup sliced black olives
¼ red onion, diced
½ jalapeño, diced (optional for heat)
¼ cup diced green onions
For the Dressing :
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
½ packet ranch seasoning mix
1 tbsp barbecue sauce
½ tbsp hot sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the Pasta : Fill a big pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Prepare the pasta following the instructions on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
Prepare the Ground Beef : Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium heat until it is cooked through. Drain excess grease and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it cool.
Mix the Dressing : In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine the Salad Ingredients : In a big mixing bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, ground beef, corn, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, black olives, red onion, and jalapeño.
Toss with Dressing : Drizzle the dressing over the salad components and toss until all are thoroughly coated.
Chill and Serve : Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Notes

Substitutions: Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and toss them with the dressing right before serving for maximum freshness.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1/8 of the recipe (150g)

Calories: 450

Macronutrients:

Total Fat

22g

28%

Saturated Fat

35%

Trans Fat

–

Cholesterol

60mg

20%

Sodium

950mg

41%

Total Carbohydrate

32g

12%

Dietary Fiber

11%

Sugars

–

Protein

22g

44%

Key Vitamins and Minerals:

Vitamin D

0mcg

Calcium

120mg

12%

Iron

2.8mg

16%

Potassium

350mg

Additional Notes

This cowboy pasta salad is a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and delicious choice for any occasion. The vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins, while the ground beef provides protein and iron.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

FAQ

Can I make cowboy pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then mix them together right before serving.
What kind of pasta works best for cowboy pasta salad?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowties is ideal as it holds the dressing well and complements the chunky ingredients.
Can I serve cowboy pasta salad warm?
Although it’s usually enjoyed cold, it can also be savored when slightly heated. Let the pasta and beef cool slightly before mixing in the dressing.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños, additional hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper into the dressing to increase the spiciness.
What’s a good side dish to pair with cowboy pasta salad?
Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a hearty, balanced meal. Cornbread or garlic bread also works well as a side.
Can I freeze cowboy pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the dressing can separate, and the pasta may become mushy when thawed. It is most enjoyable when fresh or can be kept in the refrigerator for several days.

Conclusion

Cowboy pasta salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and effortless preparation. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family on social media to spread the joy! Don’t forget to follow us on our platforms for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes. Let’s keep cooking, sharing, and connecting—one flavorful dish at a time. Give it a try today, and happy cooking!