Introduction: A Bite of the Wild West
Every summer, my grandmother would call all of us over for her famous backyard barbecue. Among the briskets and the grilled corn, there was always one dish we all fought to scoop first—her bold, zesty Cowboy Pasta Salad. This recipe brings together everything you love about the Wild West: smoky bacon, creamy dressing, hearty pasta, and a kick of jalapeño to make your taste buds do a two-step.
This cowboy pasta salad isn’t just a side dish—it’s a meal in itself. Loaded with protein, full of veggies, and tossed in a perfectly tangy dressing, it’s the kind of dish you bring to the picnic… and then guard with your plate.
Let’s lasso up this delicious summer staple, shall we?
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pasta Salad:
• 2 cups cooked rotini pasta (cooled)
• 1 cup cooked ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken
• 6 strips crispy bacon, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (adjust to heat preference)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For the Dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱ Prep and Cook Time
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Fry the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized bits.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, meat, crispy bacon, tomatoes, onion, corn, cheese, jalapeños, and parsley.
Step 5: Toss with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold with extra parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for garnish.
🌽 Tips and Variations
• Meat swap: Swap ground beef with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or keep it vegetarian by using black beans.
• Creamy kick: Add a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for some heat.
• Tex-Mex twist: Add black beans and crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
• Make ahead: This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
This cowboy pasta salad is hearty enough to stand alone as a lunch or dinner but also pairs perfectly with:
• Grilled barbecue ribs
• Garlic bread or cornbread
• Watermelon wedges and lemonade
Ideal for summer cookouts, potlucks, or just a rustic family dinner on the patio.
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Pasta Salad
• It’s bold and flavorful with smoky, spicy, and creamy elements.
• Super customizable—clean out your fridge and toss it in!
• A balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies.
• It’s the ultimate summer comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cowboy Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavor as the ingredients have time to marinate together. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
How long does Cowboy Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
It can last for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, the bacon may lose its crispiness over time.
Is this salad good for picnics or outdoor events?
Yes, it’s perfect! Just keep it chilled in a cooler or over ice to maintain freshness, especially if it’s a warm day.
Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Omit the bacon and meat, and use plant-based mayo and sour cream. Add in black beans, avocado, or grilled tofu for protein.
Can I freeze Cowboy Pasta Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad. The mayo-based dressing and veggies can become watery and lose their texture once thawed.
Conclusion: Saddle Up for Flavor
Cowboy Pasta Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a flavor-packed adventure in a bowl. From the smoky crunch of bacon to the spicy kick of jalapeño and the tang of creamy dressing, every bite is a tribute to the hearty, honest flavors of American cookouts. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, packing it for a picnic, or meal-prepping for the week, this salad will steal the show.
Now go ahead—gather your ingredients, crank up some country music, and get cooking! And don’t forget to share your cowboy salad experience. Y’all come back now, ya hear?