Introduction

Cowboy Bacon Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight meals. Packed with savory ground beef, smoky bacon, fresh vegetables, and a zesty BBQ mayo dressing, this salad brings a satisfying twist to classic pasta dishes.

A large white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad featuring several layers: the base layer is light beige farfalle pasta with a smooth texture, mixed with browned ground meat. Scattered throughout are small bright yellow cubes of cheese, shiny black beans, and bits of yellow corn adding pops of color. Halved cherry tomatoes in vibrant red and small green chopped herbs sprinkle the top, giving a fresh look. A wooden spoon with a dark brown handle rests inside the bowl, partly covered by the salad. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some red tomatoes and two green jalapeños nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (12-ounce) box bowtie pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 cup halved grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes)
1 (14.5-ounce) can corn (drained)
1 (14.5-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
8 ounces cubed cheddar cheese
1 large diced red bell pepper
1 bunch chopped green onion
1 diced jalapeno
Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
1¼ cups mayonnaise
½ cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and brown the ground beef for 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned ground beef, crumbled bacon, halved grape tomatoes, drained corn, rinsed black beans, cubed cheddar cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onion, and diced jalapeno.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and ground cumin until smooth.
Step 5: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately. If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain freshness.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, omit the jalapeno or substitute with diced green bell pepper.
Add avocado chunks for extra creaminess and a fresh contrast.
Use turkey bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing smoky flavor.
Swap bowtie pasta with rotini or penne if desired.
For a vegan version, replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and use vegan mayo.

Storage

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If possible, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving to keep the salad fresh and avoid sogginess. Reheat is not recommended as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A large white bowl filled with layered pasta salad. The base layer shows cooked farfalle pasta that is creamy with small pieces of ground meat mixed in. There are halved cherry tomatoes scattered evenly on top, adding bright red spots. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled throughout, giving a fresh look. Yellow corn kernels are mixed in, adding pops of bright yellow. A wooden spoon rests inside the bowl, showing texture and depth. The scene is set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until right before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well for a few days in the fridge and makes a satisfying lunch or dinner. Just remember to add fresh cilantro garnish before eating.