Description
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of rotini, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. This easy recipe is perfect for potlucks, parties, or a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 orange bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water until cooled and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Add bacon, cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, peas, bell pepper, red onion, and optional herbs to the pasta.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Garnish with additional bacon, herbs, or cheddar cheese before serving, if desired.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or add grilled chicken for protein.
Preparation can be done a day in advance for more flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg