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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad for Easy Gatherings

Under 20 minutes, this Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Short Pasta Use rotini or elbow macaroni for optimal dressing absorption.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Adds creaminess and tang; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter variant.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Essential for that classic flavor, can be homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Provides richness; consider pepper jack for a spicy twist.
  • 6 slices Bacon Cooked until crispy; adds crunch and smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Chopped; introduces fresh flavor.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; optional add-in for sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Diced; adds crunch and color to the salad.
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken Optional; enhances heartiness for a protein-packed version.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the pasta by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the short pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and let cool.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the bacon in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 25 minutes until crispy. Allow to cool and chop into pieces.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine sour cream and ranch dressing, whisking until smooth. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped green onions, and cheddar cheese. Toss gently. Add half of the chopped bacon.
  5. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and fold gently to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle remaining bacon on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 6mg

Notes

For best results, prepare individual components in advance and combine just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

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