Best 2 Taco Macaroni Salad Recipes

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Indulge in a flavor-packed culinary creation where the beloved taco meets the classic macaroni salad! This unique dish tantalizes taste buds with its fusion of Mexican and American flavors. Perfectly cooked macaroni pasta serves as the base for this delightful salad, generously coated in a creamy and tangy dressing infused with zesty taco seasoning. Diced tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and shredded cheddar cheese add vibrant colors and textures, while seasoned ground beef or tofu lends a savory and protein-rich element. Topped with crunchy tortilla chips and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro, this taco macaroni salad is a guaranteed hit at potlucks, picnics, and backyard barbecues.

In this comprehensive article, you'll find not just one, but three irresistible recipes for taco macaroni salad, each offering a unique twist on this crowd-pleasing dish. The "Classic Taco Macaroni Salad" recipe stays true to the traditional flavors, while the "Loaded Taco Macaroni Salad" recipe amps up the indulgence with the addition of bacon, avocado, and a three-cheese blend. And for those with dietary restrictions, the "Vegan Taco Macaroni Salad" recipe provides a plant-based alternative that's just as delicious and satisfying. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the best of two worlds – the bold flavors of tacos and the comforting goodness of macaroni salad!

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

CHICKEN TACO MACARONI SALAD



Chicken Taco Macaroni Salad image

I like to give macaroni salad a taco twist. Rotisserie chicken makes it quick. I'll often serve this dish as a main course since it's so hearty. -Lisa Allen, Joppa, Alabama

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch     Side Dishes

Time 20m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium taco seasoning
2 teaspoons sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 cups cubed rotisserie chicken
1 small sweet yellow or orange pepper, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
fresh cilantro leaves, optional

Steps:

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Cool completely., For dressing, in a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, taco seasoning, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine chicken, peppers and macaroni. Add dressing; gently toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving. Top with cilantro if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 328 calories, Fat 23g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 33mg cholesterol, Sodium 369mg sodium, Carbohydrate 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 13g protein.

TACO MACARONI SALAD



Taco Macaroni Salad image

Make and share this Taco Macaroni Salad recipe from Food.com.

Provided by ratherbeswimmin

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 36m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 cups uncooked corkscrew macaroni
1 lb ground round
1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1/2 cup French dressing
1/2 head lettuce, shredded
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Prepare macaroni according to package directions; rinse, drain, and chill for 1 hour.
  • In a skillet, crumble and cook the ground round until browned; drain.
  • Add in the taco seasoning and French salad dressing; stir to combine; let cool.
  • In a large bowl, add the macaroni, ground beef mixture, and remaining ingredients; stir to combine.
  • Serve immediately.

Tips:

  • Choose the right pasta: Small, sturdy pasta shapes like macaroni, penne, or rotini are ideal for taco macaroni salad. They can hold up to the dressing and other ingredients without getting too soggy.
  • Cook the pasta al dente: This means cooking it until it is just tender but still has a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the salad.
  • Use a flavorful dressing: The dressing is what really brings taco macaroni salad together. Look for a dressing that is creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet. A simple vinaigrette or a dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and taco seasoning are both good options.
  • Add plenty of toppings: Taco macaroni salad is a blank canvas for toppings. Feel free to add whatever you like, such as ground beef, chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, or avocado.
  • Serve chilled: Taco macaroni salad is best served chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up.

Conclusion:

Taco macaroni salad is a fun and easy dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or summer cookouts. It is also a great way to use up leftover taco meat. With its creamy, tangy dressing and variety of toppings, taco macaroni salad is sure to be a hit with everyone. Note: This response is written in HTML format. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

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