Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender pasta, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a tangy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a quick side dish, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and make ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The smoky bacon and ranch dressing create an irresistible combination.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for gatherings, picnics, or a casual family meal.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, cheese, or protein for a personal twist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow)
- Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- Ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded or cubed)
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Red onion (finely diced)
- Bell peppers (diced, optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Cook the Bacon:
- While the pasta cooks, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers (if using), and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust the amount of dressing to your preference.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Veggie Packed: Include cucumbers, black olives, or steamed broccoli for added crunch.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack, feta, or Parmesan instead of cheddar.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Serve cold or at room temperature; no reheating is necessary. Add a splash of ranch dressing if the salad seems dry after chilling.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or elbows is ideal for holding the dressing and mix-ins.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works well as a lighter alternative.
How do I prevent the salad from drying out?
Add extra ranch dressing just before serving if the pasta absorbs too much dressing while chilling.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Omit the bacon or use plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version.
What other dressings can I use?
Try Caesar, Italian, or a creamy avocado dressing for a unique flavor.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon saves time and works well in this recipe.
Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes, toasted sunflower seeds, almonds, or pecans add a great crunch.
What’s the best way to serve this salad?
Serve it chilled as a side dish, or add protein for a complete meal.
Can I freeze pasta salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of the pasta and dressing may change upon thawing.
Conclusion
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delicious, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy dressing, smoky bacon, and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this quick and easy salad with family and friends!
Print
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and flavorful Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a perfect side dish for picnics, potlucks, or summer barbecues. Packed with crispy bacon, crunchy veggies, and a tangy ranch dressing, it’s a crowd favorite!
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (120 g) diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced red onion
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
For the dressing:
- 1 cup (240 ml) ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for freshness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, lemon juice (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
- Add the dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Additions like diced avocado, black olives, or shredded rotisserie chicken can make this salad heartier.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.