Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

This bacon ranch pasta salad is creamy, flavorful, and loaded with crispy bacon, cheese, and veggies. It’s the perfect easy side dish for picnics or potlucks.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that bacon makes everything better—and this bacon ranch pasta salad is no exception. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether I’m prepping for a backyard BBQ or just need something easy to throw together on a busy weekday, this dish never lets me down.

I started making this salad a while back when I needed a side dish that didn’t require a ton of effort. What I love most is how simple it is—just cook your noodles, mix up a quick and creamy ranch-based dressing, then toss everything together. The crisp bacon, sweet peas, sharp cheese, and red onion all blend perfectly with the tangy dressing, making every forkful irresistible.

This bacon ranch pasta salad is always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings. It holds up well in the fridge, so I can make it ahead of time and just pull it out when it’s time to eat. Sometimes I even sneak a bowl for lunch the next day—no shame here! If you’re looking for something easy, satisfying, and full of flavor, this is definitely worth a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

Items Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make creamy bacon ranch salad:

• Elbow noodles – A classic pasta shape that holds the creamy dressing well and adds hearty texture.
• Ranch dip mix – Delivers bold, tangy flavor that brings the whole salad together.
• Sour cream – Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness of the dish.
• Mayonnaise – Enhances the dressing’s smooth texture and adds a subtle savory depth.
• Mild cheddar or Colby cheese – Offers a creamy, mild bite that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Frozen peas – Add a pop of sweetness and color while keeping the salad fresh and balanced.
• Bacon – Brings a smoky, salty crunch that complements the creamy dressing and tender pasta.
• Red onion – Adds a sharp bite and color contrast for extra flavor and visual appeal.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors and allows you to adjust seasoning to your preference.

Ways To Customize

Here are some easy ways to customize this bacon ranch pasta salad to fit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein – Use grilled chicken, ham, or turkey instead of bacon for a different flavor or to make it a full meal.
• Add more veggies – Try chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added crunch and color.
• Change the cheese – Use shredded pepper jack, mozzarella, or feta for a new twist on flavor.
• Use a different pasta shape – Rotini, shells, or bowtie pasta work just as well and add variety in texture.
• Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Lighten it up – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo for a healthier version.

How To Make It

Storage

Store any leftover bacon ranch pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Since this is a cold pasta salad made with mayo and sour cream, there’s no need to reheat it—in fact, it’s best enjoyed chilled. If the salad thickens up too much in the fridge, you can stir in a small spoonful of mayo or sour cream just before serving to refresh the texture.

Helpful Hints

Here are more helpful hints for making this recipe:

• Cook the pasta al dente – Slightly firm noodles hold up better in creamy salads and won’t get mushy.
• Use freshly cooked bacon – It adds a crisp texture and richer flavor compared to pre-cooked or store-bought bacon bits.
• Thaw and drain peas well – Excess moisture can water down the dressing.
• Dice ingredients evenly – Small, uniform pieces make the salad easier to eat and ensure every bite is balanced.
• Taste and adjust seasoning – Always taste the salad before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or ranch mix as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This bacon ranch pasta salad is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. It’s perfect alongside grilled chicken or burgers at your next barbecue, adding a creamy and flavorful complement to smoky, savory proteins. I love serving it at outdoor gatherings because it’s easy to make ahead and stays delicious chilled. For a great pairing, try it with my Air Fryer BBQ Chicken recipe—both dishes make a winning combo for any cookout.

You can also enjoy this salad as a quick lunch or light dinner on its own. It’s filling enough thanks to the pasta, cheese, and bacon, but still refreshing with the peas and red onion. For a more substantial meal, try adding extra protein like shredded rotisserie chicken or hard-boiled eggs. If you’re looking for more hearty keto-friendly options, check out my Keto Swedish Meatballs recipe to round out your meal plan.

This pasta salad also works well for potlucks and family get-togethers. It’s always one of the first dishes to disappear. Plus, it travels well, so it’s easy to bring along and serve right from the container, whether you’re heading to a picnic or a friend’s house. With these easy recipes, your next gathering is sure to be a hit!

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