15+ Easy Meat Lovers Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Want to Make Tonight!
Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Imagine a pasta salad that’s not just a side dish but a full-on feast packed with meaty goodness. Let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes that will satisfy your cravings and have everyone asking for seconds.
This vibrant salad combines tender pasta with the zesty flavors of Italian sausage and colorful bell peppers. The smoky and savory taste of the sausage perfectly complements the crunchy veggies, making each bite a delightful experience. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up!
1 pound of Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
3 cups of cooked pasta (penne or rotini works great)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Italian dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner party. The combination of warm sausage and fresh vegetables makes it a hearty dish that feels comforting yet refreshing. Serve it warm or cold, and it’s sure to impress with its beautiful colors and flavors!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
If you love BBQ flavors, this pasta salad is a must-try! It features tender chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce, mingling with creamy pasta and crunchy veggies for a deliciously satisfying dish. It’s like a summer cookout in a bowl!
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups pasta (fusilli or farfalle)
1 cup corn (canned or fresh)
1 red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken, making it both economical and delicious. The creamy ranch dressing balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, creating a unique flavor profile that will have you craving more. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
<pThis fun twist on a classic meatball sub brings all those rich flavors into a pasta salad. Juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese come together with pasta to create a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. It's like a warm hug in a bowl!
1 pound meatballs (frozen or homemade)
3 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a classic sandwich without the bread. The gooey cheese and savory meatballs create a delightful combination that’s hard to resist. Serve it warm or chilled, and watch as everyone goes back for more!
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy chorizo and olive pasta salad is a perfect choice. The bold flavors of chorizo, paired with briny olives and fresh herbs, create an exciting taste experience. It’s a fiesta for your taste buds!
1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
3 cups cooked pasta (farfalle or penne)
1 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Fresh parsley for garnish
This dish isn’t just flavorful; it’s also visually appealing with its vibrant colors. The spicy chorizo adds a kick, while the olives bring a delicious tang. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 28 min Total Time: 28 min.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
If you’re looking for a classic that never goes out of style, this ham and cheese pasta salad is it! Combining hearty pasta with tender ham and creamy cheese, it’s a nostalgic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s comfort food with a twist!
This recipe is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a great way to use leftover ham, and the peas add a pop of color and sweetness. Perfect for lunchboxes or casual dinners, this pasta salad is one that everyone will love!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
For the blue cheese lovers out there, this beef and blue cheese pasta salad is a real treat! Tender beef, sharp blue cheese, and fresh greens come together in a dish that’s rich and flavorful. It’s a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to make!
1 pound ground beef
3 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne)
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe stands out due to its bold flavors and unique combination of ingredients. The rich blue cheese paired with savory beef creates a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this pasta salad is bound to be a new favorite!
