Summer is finally here and that means backyard barbecues are calling your name. Too hot to turn on the oven for a long time? This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is exactly what you need.
It is cool, creamy, and packed with everyone’s favorite flavors. Your family will love the smoky bacon and tangy ranch dressing. It is the ultimate side dish for any sunny afternoon gathering.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe is a winner because it combines simple pantry staples with fresh ingredients. It is incredibly budget-friendly and feeds a large crowd with ease. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes.
The combination of salty bacon and sharp cheddar is truly hard to beat. It is a kid-approved favorite that even picky eaters enjoy. Perfect for busy summer weeknights or your next big neighborhood potluck.
Simple Method
Making this salad is as easy as boiling water and whisking a sauce. You simply cook your pasta and let it cool completely. Then, you toss everything together in one big, beautiful bowl.
Shortcuts like using a ranch packet save you so much time. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this dish today. It is practically foolproof and always turns out delicious.
Simple Ingredients
Most of these items are probably already sitting in your kitchen right now.
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 12 oz bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until fully cooled.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, ranch dressing mix, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, peas, cubed cheddar, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the dressing.
- Toss all ingredients until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this salad chilled alongside juicy grilled burgers or hot dogs. It also pairs perfectly with fresh corn on the cob. The creamy texture balances out smoky grilled meats beautifully.
Pack it into small containers for an easy and refreshing weekday lunch. If you are heading to a picnic, keep it in a cooler. It stays fresh and delicious even on a warm day.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator. This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad stays good for up to three days. The flavors actually get better as it sits.
If the pasta looks dry the next day, add a splash of milk. Give it a quick stir to restore that creamy texture. Do not freeze this dish, as the mayo base will separate.
Recipe Tips
- Do not skip rinsing the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking.
- Cook your bacon until it is extra crispy so it stays crunchy.
- Cut your cheddar cheese into small, uniform cubes for the perfect bite.
- Use a sturdy pasta shape like rotini to hold the creamy dressing.
- For a big holiday gathering, feel free to double the entire batch.
- Add the bacon right before serving if you want maximum crunchiness.
- Make sure your peas are fully thawed and drained before adding.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the peas for chopped broccoli florets for more crunch.
- Use turkey bacon for a slightly lighter version of this dish.
- Add diced grilled chicken to turn this into a full meal.
- In the spring, try adding fresh asparagus tips instead of tomatoes.
Common Questions
Can I make this the night before?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this a day in advance. Just hold back half the dressing and stir it in before serving. This keeps the pasta from soaking up all the moisture.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. This adds a nice tang and boosts the protein content. It still stays very creamy and delicious.
How do I know when the pasta is ready?
Check the pasta two minutes before the package time ends. It should be tender but still have a firm bite. Overcooked pasta will get mushy in the salad.
I hope this creamy salad becomes a staple at your summer tables. It is a simple way to bring everyone together for a meal. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 12 oz bacon , cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mayonnais e
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until fully cooled.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, ranch dressing mix, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, peas, cubed cheddar, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the dressing.
- Toss all ingredients until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
