Go Back
Creamy Ranch Bacon Pasta Salad

Creamy Ranch Bacon Pasta Salad

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese cubes
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 red onion finely diced
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • For the Creamy Ranch Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  3. While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled.
  4. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  5. Add the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and green onions to the bowl with the pasta.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, milk, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  7. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the salad and mix lightly once more.
  9. Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend together.
  10. Toss again before serving and garnish with extra bacon or green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just until al dente so it keeps its texture after chilling.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water to cool it quickly and stop overcooking.
  • Cook bacon until extra crispy for the best texture in the salad.
  • Add a splash of milk if the dressing becomes too thick.
  • Chill the salad before serving for the best flavor.
  • Use freshly shredded or cubed cheese for better texture and flavor.
  • Reserve some bacon for garnish right before serving for extra crunch.