This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
If you think salads are just sad bowls of lettuce, prepare to have your mind (and taste buds) blown! This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is here to rescue you from boring side dishes and bring a party to your plate. We’re talking tender pasta, sweet green peas, sharp cheddar, zesty onion, and—wait for it—crispy bacon, all swimming in a creamy ranch sauce. It’s basically a flavor explosion that’ll make you forget you ever judged a salad. So grab a fork and your stretchy pants, because this is not your grandma’s salad!
Why this pasta salad is great:
- Super simple tasty side dish – great for parties, summer BBQs, or potlucks.
- The creamy ranch dressing takes it up a notch!
- Bacon and ranch – need we say more?
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Servings: 12
Ingredients
- 16 oz. elbow noodles, cooked and drained according to directions.
- 1 oz. ranch dip mix
- 16 oz. sour cream
- ¼ cup mayo
- 8 oz mild cheddar or colby cheese, cubed
- 10 oz frozen peas, thawed
- 8 pieces bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ red onion
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the ranch dip, sour cream, mayo, salt and pepper to taste.
Once the dressing is fully combined, add in the remaining ingredients.
Stir until combined thoroughly.
Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
FAQ
Can I make this bacon ranch pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, letting all those flavors mingle. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work great because they hold onto the creamy ranch sauce and all the tasty mix-ins.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply leave out the bacon or swap it for a vegetarian bacon alternative for the same smoky crunch.
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—if you don’t eat it all before then!
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