Description
This Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or meal prep. Combining tender pasta, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy ranch dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Optional grilled chicken adds protein, making it a satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Short Pasta (rotini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup Ranch Dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (grated; pepper jack can be used for spice)
- 6 slices Bacon (cooked until crispy)
- 1/2 cup Green Onions (chopped; chives as an alternative)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved, optional)
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (diced)
- 1 cup Grilled Chicken (optional, for added protein)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until crispy. Remove from the oven and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and ranch dressing. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the slightly cooled pasta with green onions, cheddar cheese, and half of the cooked bacon. Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and grilled chicken if using.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the ranch and sour cream mixture over the pasta and vegetables. Toss thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the Salad: For the best flavor, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top. Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Pepper jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Grilled chicken is optional but adds protein and heartiness to the salad.
- Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
