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–+ servings
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Crowd-Pleaser

A delicious Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad that's perfect for summer gatherings, combining crispy bacon and fresh veggies in a creamy dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Substitute with small shells for visual variety.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Choose regular or low-fat versions.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Opt for whole, 2%, or dairy-free alternatives.
  • 1 packet Dry Ranch Dressing Mix A homemade blend with dried herbs can substitute if desired.
For the Salad
  • 6 slices Cooked Bacon Turkey bacon is a lighter variation.
  • 1 cup Cheese (Gouda or Cheddar) Try your favorite melting cheese for variety.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced bell peppers can be substituted for crunch.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thaw before adding.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives Feel free to omit for a milder taste.
  • to taste Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder) Adjust to enhance the overall flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spoon
  • knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Chop the cooked bacon, halve the cherry tomatoes, cube the cheese, and thaw the frozen peas.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, and dry ranch dressing mix until smooth.
  4. Add cooled pasta to the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Fold in bacon, cheese, peas, tomatoes, and olives.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste, then mix again.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to meld flavors.
  8. Stir before serving, refreshing the dressing with a splash of milk if necessary.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, chill the salad for 1-2 hours before serving to ensure flavors meld.

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