Taco Pasta Salad 
Ingredients:
16 oz rotini pasta (or any medium-sized noodle)
1 lb ground beef
3 tbsp taco seasoning mix
1Ā½ cups chopped tomatoes
1 cup diced green bell pepper
2-3 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese
4 cups shredded lettuce
15 oz French dressing
3 cups slightly crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips
Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Ground Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning until the beef is evenly coated. Let it cool slightly.
Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, chopped tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, shredded cheese, and shredded lettuce.
Add the Dressing:
Pour the French dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Add Crunch Before Serving:
Just before serving, mix in the crushed nacho cheese or tortilla chips for an irresistible crunch.
Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor boost. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 | Approx. 320 kcal per serving
Helpful Tips:
Make Ahead: Prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store in the fridge. Add the chips and dressing just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Customizable Veggies: Add ingredients like black beans, corn, or jalapeƱos to elevate the flavor and texture of the salad.
