Ingredients
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1 pound (450 g) ground beef
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2 tablespoons taco seasoning
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8 ounces (225 g) rotini pasta, cooked al dente
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1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
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1 medium Roma tomato, finely diced
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1 can (15.25 ounces / 432 g) corn kernels, drained
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½ cup (74 g) red bell pepper, finely diced
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½ cup (80 g) yellow onion, diced
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2 cups (226 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup (272 g) Catalina dressing
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1 bag (9.25 ounces / 262 g) Nacho Doritos, slightly crushed (reserve some for topping)
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Diced iceberg lettuce, optional for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm but tender). Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the Taco Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef for 8–10 minutes until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. Add 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning and 2–3 tablespoons of water, then stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 more minutes and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3 – Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked taco meat, jalapeño, diced Roma tomato, corn, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4 – Add Dressing:
Pour 1 cup of Catalina dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5 – Add Crunch & Serve:
Just before serving, fold in the slightly crushed Doritos. Top with additional Doritos and diced iceberg lettuce for garnish, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
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Make-ahead tip: Assemble all ingredients except Doritos, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add Doritos just before serving to maintain crunch.
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Protein alternatives: Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey or shredded chicken.
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Spice it up: Add extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Salad / Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop & Mixing Bowl
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian