Name: Best Recipe for Cowboy Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup barbecue sauce; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cowboy Pasta is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, tangy dressing, and a medley of fresh ingredients. It’s a crowd-pleasing, comforting meal that comes together quickly and keeps well, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Best Recipe for Cowboy Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how Cowboy Pasta delivers bold, satisfying flavors in every bite. The creamy dressing brings balance to the savory beef and cheddar, while fresh veggies add texture and brightness. It’s the kind of dish I can whip up in under an hour and feel good about serving any time of year. Whether I’m feeding a group or prepping meals ahead of time, it’s always a hit.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
Ground beef
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Red onion, diced
Shredded cheddar cheese
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Barbecue sauce
Yellow mustard
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

I cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse it under cold water to cool.
While the pasta is cooking, I brown the ground beef in a skillet with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until fully cooked. I drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
I whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, barbecue sauce, and mustard in a bowl until smooth to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked pasta, beef, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
I pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
I chill the pasta for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together.
Just before serving, I like to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 to 8 servings and takes about 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish:

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Chill time (optional): 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or use spicy sausage for a kick. Adding extras like corn, black beans, or chopped bell peppers gives it more texture and makes it even more filling. For a twist, I like using chipotle mayo or swapping cheddar for pepper jack for extra flavor.

Storage/reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I use the microwave and add a splash of water or extra dressing to keep it creamy. If I serve it cold, I give it a quick stir and add a bit of sauce to refresh the flavor.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Cowboy Pasta?

I like using rotini or penne because they hold the sauce well and mix easily with the other ingredients.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, I often make it the day before. It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

Is it served warm or cold?

I enjoy it both ways—freshly made while warm or chilled like a pasta salad.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely. I’ve made it with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, and even smoked gouda for different flavor profiles.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making it great for meal prep.

Conclusion

Cowboy Pasta is one of those dishes I always keep in my rotation. It’s flavorful, simple, and easy to customize with whatever I have on hand. Whether I serve it at a picnic, for dinner, or pack it for lunch, it never fails to satisfy.