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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad for Flavor-Filled Fun

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad is a versatile dish perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks, ready in under 20 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Short Pasta Rotini or elbow macaroni recommended.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Liquid Ranch Dressing Store-bought or homemade.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Pepper jack can be used for spice.
  • 6 slices Bacon Cook until crispy, then chop.
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Chives can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Optional for added freshness.
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken Optional for additional protein.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Optional for extra crunch.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • sheet pan
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper, arrange the bacon, and bake for about 25 minutes until crispy. Cool and chop into pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and ranch dressing, whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the cooled pasta, green onions, cheddar cheese, and half the bacon to the dressing. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad and sprinkle with remaining bacon. Add garnishes if desired, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Chillin the salad enhances the flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

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