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Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Any Gathering

Enjoy this Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz rotini pasta substitute with penne or fusilli
  • 8 oz cooked bacon, chopped turkey bacon can lighten the dish
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded try Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for variation
  • 1 cup green onions, chopped red onions or chives work well too
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed fresh peas can be used for a brighter taste
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute
  • 1 cup ranch dressing consider making homemade ranch
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard yellow mustard can be used as an alternative
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar white wine vinegar can be swapped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper freshly cracked provides the best flavor
  • 1 tsp garlic powder fresh minced garlic adds a robust taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • medium mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt, then stir in the rotini pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper until smooth.
  3. In the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled rotini pasta, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and thawed peas. Gently fold to combine.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
  5. Stir gently before serving. Serve chilled in a large bowl or individual plates for a delightful addition to any gathering.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 640mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill time enhances flavor. Be gentle when mixing to maintain pasta integrity. Use fresh ingredients for the best result. This dish can be made a day in advance.

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