Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice—rotini or penne work wonderfully—and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the dressing.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, and milk. Using a whisk, blend them together until smooth and creamy. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, dried chives, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, adjusting the dressing's consistency with additional milk if necessary, until you reach a creamy texture perfect for your Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon strips. Cook the bacon for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces, ready to fold into your salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cooled ranch dressing, and the crumbled bacon. Toss gently to coat everything evenly, ensuring that every piece of pasta is engulfed in that creamy dressing. Next, fold in the frozen green peas and shredded cheddar cheese, incorporating them gently to maintain the pasta's integrity while adding a burst of flavor and color to your Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad.
- For the best flavor, let the Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a warm salad, serve immediately, but for a refreshing cold dish, allow it to sit. Just before serving, give it a gentle stir and taste; you can always add a splash of milk or more dressing if it appears dry.
Nutrition
Notes
Feel free to get creative with your Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad by adding extra veggies or proteins, making it your very own culinary masterpiece!
