why make this recipe
Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a fantastic dish that combines the rich flavors of bacon and ranch with the comforting texture of pasta. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings, this recipe is simple to prepare and loved by both kids and adults. The creamy dressing and fresh ingredients make it a hit every time, and you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
how to make Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 box small shell pasta (16 oz)
- 1 packet ranch dip mix (1 oz)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 container sour cream (16 oz)
- 2 tsp parsley
- 1 tsp dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 block mild or sharp cheddar cheese, cubed (16 oz)
- 1 bag frozen peas, thawed (10 oz)
Directions:
- Cook the shell pasta according to the directions on the package. When done, drain and rinse with cool water. Dump into a large mixing bowl and set aside to cool.
- Mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, parsley, and dill. Stir until well combined and pour over the pasta. Stir together until all of the pasta is coated.
- Add cubed cheese, thawed peas, and crumbled bacon. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper as needed to taste.
- Cover and chill for at least one hour before serving.
how to serve Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad chilled as a side dish or a main dish at your next gathering. You can scoop it into bowls or serve it directly from the mixing bowl. Pair it with grilled meats or fresh vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also great for lunch, providing a tasty and satisfying option.
how to store Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
To store leftovers, keep the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Before serving leftovers, give it a quick stir and taste; you may want to add a little extra salt, pepper, or dressing since it can thicken up while stored.
tips to make Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Make sure to cool the pasta thoroughly before adding the dressing to keep it creamy.
- You can cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to mix everything together.
- For a little extra crunch, consider adding chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Customizing the cheese or using different herbs can enhance the flavor to your liking.
variation
You can easily swap out the small shell pasta for rotini or penne. If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise and sour cream. Additionally, try adding other vegetables like chopped cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the pasta salad a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be a lighter option if you prefer, and it still adds a nice smoky flavor.
Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta option. Make sure that the ranch dip and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Dressing
- 1 box small shell pasta (16 oz)
- 1 packet ranch dip mix (1 oz)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 container sour cream (16 oz)
- 2 tsp parsley
- 1 tsp dill
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 12 strips bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 block mild or sharp cheddar cheese (cubed, 16 oz)
- 1 bag frozen peas (thawed, 10 oz)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the shell pasta according to the directions on the package. When done, drain and rinse with cool water.
- Dump into a large mixing bowl and set aside to cool.
Preparing the Dressing
- Mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, parsley, and dill. Stir until well combined.
- Pour over the cooled pasta and stir together until all of the pasta is coated.
Combining Ingredients
- Add cubed cheese, thawed peas, and crumbled bacon. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper as needed to taste.
- Cover and chill for at least one hour before serving.