This is Not Your Ordinary Taco Salad

This Beef Taco Pasta Salad is a mash-up of taco salad and pasta salad, resulting in a flavor-packed southwest crowd pleaser. The tender noodles complement the seasoned beef, crisp romaine and crunchy corn chips. You can add all of your favorite taco salad toppings for even more flavor and texture.

This simple salad starts with Suddenly Pasta Salad Southwest. The box contains everything you need for a south-of-the-border pasta salad, but we’re going to take it to the next level with lots of additions, so you’ll also need: the mayo and milk called for on the pasta salad box, ground beef, taco seasoning, chopped romaine, pico de gallo, sliced olives, fresh cilantro, sliced scallions and corn chips.

First, prepare the pasta salad as directed on the box. Set aside in a large bowl. Then brown the ground beef using a 10-inch skillet. Drain and then add the taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water, simmering until thickened. Set aside.

Add the pico de gallo, olives, cilantro and scallions to the large pasta bowl. Toss to mix and then add the seasoning ground beef.

Top the salad with crunchy corn chips and serve with your favorite taco toppings. Other great mix-ins include: black beans, corn, avocado or guacamole, sour cream, salsa and shredded cheese.