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Creamy Cowboy Pasta Salad

A creamy, smoky pasta salad perfect for potlucks and weeknight dinners, featuring bacon, cheese, and ranch-style dressing.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed if frozen)
  • 1 cup cheese (cheddar or pepper jack), shredded
  • 1 cup creamy dressing (ranch or similar)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, corn, black beans, and shredded cheese in a large bowl.
  3. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
  5. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  6. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

Cool pasta quickly under cold water to prevent mushiness. Taste before chilling and adjust seasoning since flavors will concentrate.

  • Author: jayne
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: pasta salad, cowboy pasta salad, creamy salad, easy recipes, potluck dishes