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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad Ready in 20 Minutes

Quick and satisfying Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad perfect for gatherings and customizable for dietary needs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Short Pasta opt for rotini or elbow macaroni
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing homemade or store-bought
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese grated; pepper jack for a spicy twist
  • 6 slices Bacon cooked until crispy
For the Freshness
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions chopped; chives as alternative
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved; optional
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers diced; swap with other crunchy vegetables
For Extra Heartiness
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken optional; adds protein

Equipment

  • large pot
  • baking sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange 6 slices of bacon on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until crispy. Allow to cool and chop into pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream and 1 cup of ranch dressing. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta, 1/2 cup of chopped green onions, 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, and half of the chopped bacon. Mix well to combine flavors.
  5. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure an even coat.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Prior to serving, stir the salad and garnish with remaining chopped bacon. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Avoid freezing as it may affect texture.