bacon ranch pasta salad recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best bacon ranch pasta salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this bacon ranch pasta salad recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered this recipe at a family gathering, where it was served as a side dish. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular – the combination of crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh pasta is absolute perfection.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.

I love that it’s also relatively healthy, making it a guilt-free option for those of us who are trying to eat well. One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it hot or cold, and it’s perfect for both kids and adults alike.

My kids absolutely devour this dish, and I love that they’re getting in some much-needed veggies at the same time. The key to making this recipe work is using high-quality ingredients – don’t skimp on the bacon or the ranch dressing, trust me.

It makes all the difference in the flavor and texture of the final product.

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

4.7 from 1093 votes

A creamy and tangy pasta salad packed with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a homemade ranch dressing. Perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Pasta Salad

12 oz pasta shapes
8 oz bacon
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped

Ranch Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp dried dill
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp dried chives
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and rinse under cold water.
4Set aside to cool.
5While the pasta is cooking, place bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6Cook in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
7Remove from oven and let it cool.
8Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
9In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
10To make the ranch dressing, in a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, dried dill, dried parsley, dried chives, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
11The dressing should be smooth and creamy.
12Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture.
13Toss gently with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
14Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
15Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick stir.
16Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
17Serve chilled and enjoy!

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like corn or olives for extra flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the salad.

This bacon ranch pasta salad recipe is one of my go-to’s for family gatherings – everyone loves it! It’s also super easy to reheat and serve again later in the week.

If you’re looking for some ideas on how to serve this dish, try adding some cherry tomatoes or sliced olives on top for added flavor and texture. You can also serve it as a main course by adding some cooked chicken or shrimp on top.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using a sturdy pasta shape like bowtie or penne. The ridges on these shapes help the ranch dressing cling to them beautifully.

Q: Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?

A: Yes, you can definitely use store-bought ranch dressing if you prefer. However, keep in mind that homemade ranch is so much better – it’s easier to make than you think!

Q: How much bacon should I use?

A: I like to use about 6 slices of bacon per serving – feel free to adjust based on your family’s preferences.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance – just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until serving.

Q: What if I don’t have any fresh herbs?

A: You can definitely omit the fresh herbs if you don’t have them on hand – just be sure to taste and adjust as needed.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts