Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy dish that combines flavors everyone loves. The crunchy veggies, savory bacon, and creamy dressing come together to create a perfect side or main dish. It’s great for potlucks, picnics, or a simple family dinner.
How to Make Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well mixed.
- Add the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and thawed peas into the same bowl.
- Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled.
How to Serve Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Serve the pasta salad as a side dish alongside grilled meats or take it to a barbecue. It can also be a light meal on its own. Consider garnishing it with extra green onions for a fresh touch.
How to Store Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. It is best to eat it cold, so just give it a good stir before serving.
Tips to Make Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before serving.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; you want to keep some texture in the salad.
Variation
Feel free to add other ingredients like grilled chicken or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap the ranch dressing for a different dressing of your choice.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Can I make it lighter?
You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and dressing for a healthier version.
