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Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

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A quick and easy summer side dish combining creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and pasta for a flavorful and satisfying salad perfect for cookouts and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 1 pint (about 10 ounces) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rotini and cook according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain well.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 8 slices of thick-cut bacon and cook until crispy, about 6–8 minutes, flipping occasionally. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup ranch dressing, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup sour cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped parsley (if using). Pour the dressing over the top.
  5. Toss gently with salad tongs or a large spoon until the pasta is evenly coated and all ingredients are well mixed, being careful not to burst the tomatoes.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, toss gently again and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness. Rinse pasta under cold water after draining to stop cooking and cool it. Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt. Chill salad for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor. If salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon of ranch dressing or mayonnaise. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid microwaving leftovers; bring to room temperature and stir gently instead.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, bacon, ranch dressing, cherry tomatoes, summer side dish, creamy pasta salad, easy pasta salad, picnic recipe

Find it online: https://vexifood.com/creamy-bacon-ranch-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-summer-side-dish/