Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Introduction

Looking for the ultimate side dish to steal the show at your summer cookout or family gathering? This Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is exactly what you need. Packed with tender pasta, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tossed in a cool, tangy ranch dressing, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those dishes people come back for seconds (and thirds!).

Why Make This Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

  • Perfect for Summer: Cool, creamy, and loaded with flavor — it’s the best thing to serve alongside grilled meats on a hot day.
  • Incredibly Easy: Just cook, mix, chill, and you’re done.
  • Great for Make-Ahead: This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
  • Loved by All: With bacon, cheese, and ranch, it’s a combo that everyone adores.

Ingredients & Substitutions

  • 12 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta (or any pasta that holds sauce well)
  • 12 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup ranch dressing (or more to taste)
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional, adds crunch and color)
  • ½ cup chopped green onions or celery
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Substitutions:

  • Try adding halved cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst.
  • Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
  • Swap ranch for a combo of Greek yogurt and a little ranch seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. Prepare Bacon & Veggies: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. Chop green onions (and peppers if using).
  3. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and ranch dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta, bacon, cheese, green onions, and peppers into the bowl. Toss gently until well coated.
  5. Chill & Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Give it a quick stir and top with extra cheese or bacon if you like.

How to Serve Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

  • The perfect side for burgers, grilled chicken, steaks, or ribs.
  • Great on its own for a light lunch.
  • Ideal for summer parties, BBQs, and potlucks.

How to Store

  • Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Stir well before serving again.

Pro Tips from the Chef

  • Rinse your pasta under cold water so it doesn’t keep cooking and get mushy.
  • Make it a few hours ahead for best flavor.
  • Don’t skip the chill time — it lets all the flavors meld.
  • Crumble bacon fresh for maximum crispness.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

FAQs

Can I make it the night before?
Absolutely! It’s even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.

Can I use bottled ranch?
Yes, any good-quality ranch works great here.

Can I add other veggies?
Sure — peas, tomatoes, or even corn are tasty additions.

Is it served cold?
Yes, this is a chilled salad, perfect for hot days.

Conclusion

This Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the side dish you’ll keep making all summer long. It’s quick to throw together, packed with irresistible flavors, and always a hit with family and friends. Whether it’s for a BBQ, picnic, or easy weeknight dinner, this pasta salad brings comfort and joy to every table.

Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Cool and creamy pasta salad loaded with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy ranch dressing — perfect for summer cookouts and potlucks.

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 12 ounces bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup ranch dressing
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers optional
  • ½ cup chopped green onions or celery
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. Chop veggies.
  • In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise and ranch dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Add pasta, bacon, cheese, and veggies. Toss to combine.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

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