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–+ servings
Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad: A Creamy Summer Delight

A delicious and creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings, customizable with various ingredients.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Short Pasta Rotini or elbow macaroni recommended
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can substitute for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Store-bought or homemade
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Grated; can use pepper jack for a spicy twist
  • 6 slices Bacon Crispy texture; can substitute with cooked chicken or turkey
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Chopped; chives can be an alternative
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved, optional for sweetness
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken Optional for added protein
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Diced, optional for crunch and sweetness

Equipment

  • large pot
  • baking sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot filled with salted water, bring to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, arrange 6 slices of bacon, and bake for approximately 25 minutes until crispy. Let cool and chop.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream with 1 cup of ranch dressing. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Fold in ½ cup of green onions, 1 cup of cheese, and half of the bacon into the cooled pasta. Mix until evenly distributed.
  5. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture, toss gently to combine, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad is perfect for gatherings and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

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