Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Pasta salads have long been a staple in home kitchens and at gatherings, loved for their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether served as a side dish, a main course, or a delightful addition to any potluck, pasta salads can be customized to suit various tastes and occasions. Among the myriad of pasta salad options, Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad stands out due to its delicious blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both children and adults alike. This salad combines the savory richness of crispy bacon with the tangy creaminess of ranch dressing, making it a crowd-pleaser that is sure to be devoured at your next gathering.

Discover the ultimate crowd-pleaser with Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks. Combining crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing, it delivers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that appeal to everyone. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, this pasta salad is a must-have at your next gathering. Bring people together over this delicious, hearty salad that’s sure to be a hit!

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Ingredients

8 oz rotini pasta

6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup ranch dressing

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Combine Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Mix Everything: Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings