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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad for Easy Summer Entertaining

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad is a vibrant, customizable delight perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz short pasta any type you love, whole wheat or chickpea for gluten-free
  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra protein
  • 1 cup liquid ranch dressing store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded; substitute with pepper jack for heat
  • 8 oz bacon can swap for grilled chicken or turkey
  • 4 medium green onions sliced; can use chives
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes optional; can replace with bell peppers
  • 2 cups grilled chicken optional, for a protein boost
  • 1 cup bell peppers optional, for added crunch
For Serving
  • ¼ cup fresh herbs optional; parsley or dill
  • ½ cup extra cheddar for garnishing

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sheet Pan
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and arrange bacon strips. Bake for approximately 25 minutes until crispy.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and ranch dressing. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, green onions, cheddar cheese, and half of the crispy bacon. Toss to mix well.
  5. Pour ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle remaining bacon on top and garnish with fresh herbs or cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad is customizable and can be adapted to various dietary needs. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

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