Description
This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad features delightful flavors and simple preparation. With crispy bacon, creamy dressing, and fresh vegetables, it’s perfect for a quick meal or a gathering.
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
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled. 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 and creamy.
- Add the cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, thawed peas, diced orange bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and fresh herbs to the pasta and mix well.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
- Garnish with additional bacon, herbs, or cheddar cheese if desired before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, try adding diced cucumbers or celery.
This salad can be made a day in advance for meal prep or picnics.
Feel free to substitute other vegetables according to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg