Go Back
+ servings
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: A Creamy BBQ Side Everyone Loves

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish featuring tri-color rotini, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 23 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz tri-color rotini pasta Adds a colorful twist and holds the creamy dressing beautifully.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Serves as the creamy base; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter choice.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Enhances creaminess; can swap for more mayonnaise if you prefer.
  • 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix Infuses bold flavors; consider homemade ranch seasoning for a personal touch.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Provides a subtle depth; fresh garlic delivers a more intense flavor.
  • 1/4 cup milk Adjusts dressing consistency; use buttermilk for an extra kick of tang.
For the Salad
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped Adds savory crunch; pre-cooked options can save time.
  • 1 large tomato, diced Brings freshness and hydration; can be replaced with bell peppers for crunch.
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives, drained Offers a briny contrast; easily omitted if you prefer.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Delivers richness; switch it out for pepper jack if you’re feeling spicy.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook for about 8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, dry ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and milk. Whisk until fully blended and creamy.
  3. Add the cooled tri-color rotini pasta to the dressing. Incorporate the chopped bacon, diced tomato, sliced black olives, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently toss until coated.
  4. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Before serving, stir the chilled pasta salad gently. If dry, add a splash of milk to reach desired creaminess.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allowing the salad to chill enhances flavors. Prioritize fresh ingredients for best results.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!