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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

Summery Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad You'll Love

This Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad is a quick and delicious summer dish, perfect for BBQs or potlucks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Short Pasta Rotini or elbow macaroni recommended
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a substitute
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Spicy pepper jack can be used
  • 6 slices Bacon Can substitute with grilled chicken or tofu
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Chives can be a substitute
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved before adding
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Diced before mixing
Optional Garnishes
  • 2 slices Additional Bacon Sprinkle on top before serving
  • Fresh Herbs Dill or parsley can elevate flavor
  • Toasted Nuts Pecans or walnuts for crunch

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • colander
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add short pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Bake the Bacon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until crispy. Chop into small pieces.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, mix sour cream and ranch dressing until smooth. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.
  4. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, green onions, cheddar cheese, and half of the bacon. Gently fold together.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour dressing over salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Fold in remaining bacon before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best flavor, store salad in an airtight container and enjoy within 2-3 days. Chill pasta and dressing separately for optimal texture.

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