Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Why Make This Recipe
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any gathering. It’s packed with flavor and has a great mix of textures. The crispy bacon and crunchy vegetables blend well with the creamy dressing, making it a crowd-pleaser. This salad is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, which is a big plus for busy cooks.
How to Make Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1½ tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 lb. medium shell pasta
- 10 slices bacon
- 1½ cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup frozen baby peas, thawed
- ½ cup small cubed cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions and drain well. Lightly rinse with cold water and drain again.
- In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, onion powder, chives, dill, basil, and parsley.
- Cover a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on the paper. Bake at 375 degrees for 12-17 minutes or until crispy. Remove to paper towels to drain and let cool before chopping.
- In a large bowl, add the cooked and drained pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, peas, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to coat. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
How to Serve Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Serve Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad chilled as a side dish or a main course. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. You can also enjoy it as a quick and satisfying lunch.
How to Store Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing, you can add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream before serving.
Tips to Make Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. This keeps it firm and allows it to hold up well in the salad.
- You can fry the bacon on the stovetop if you don’t want to bake it. Just make sure it’s crispy!
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding grilled chicken or swapping out the bacon for turkey bacon. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Rotini or penne work well too!
Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better when it sits for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Just stir before serving.
