Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly. While the pasta cooks, halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the scallions, roughly chop the cilantro, thickly shred the cheddar cheese, and measure out the corn kernels. This prep work ensures everything is ready when you need it.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, fry the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, then remove and crumble into bite-sized pieces. In the same pan with 1 tablespoon of bacon grease, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and develop their flavors. I like to let the spices bloom in the fat like this—it really deepens the smoky, cowboy character of the dish.

While the beef is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, smoky barbecue sauce, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and sweet chili sauce in a medium bowl until smooth and well combined. Set aside until ready to dress the salad.

Add the corn kernels to the skillet with the beef and spices, and cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred and caramelized. Transfer the charred corn mixture to a large bowl, then add the cooked pasta from Step 1, crumbled bacon, crumbled beef, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced scallions. I recommend letting the salad cool to room temperature before dressing it so the cheese doesn't melt unevenly—you want those cheese shreds to stay distinct and creamy.

Pour the dressing from Step 3 over the pasta and ingredients, then toss everything together until evenly coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then gently fold in the fresh cilantro at the very end to preserve its bright color and fresh flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.