Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad 🥓🍝

This Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it the perfect dish for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings. It's a quick and easy recipe that can be made ahead of time and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! The creamy ranch dressing complements the crispy bacon and fresh veggies beautifully, creating a dish that's both satisfying and refreshing. Pair it with your favorite grilled meats or enjoy it on its own!

Ingredients

For the pasta salad

• 8 ounces of rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
• 6 slices of crispy bacon, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the dressing

• 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds creaminess and a slight tang)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the rotini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta down.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Mix the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

4. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

🥗 This pasta salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it a great meal prep option. Just be cautious about adding the tomatoes too early as they can release moisture. You can also toss them in just before serving for a fresh touch!

Variations

• Add protein: Mix in some grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or rotisserie chicken for a heartier version. 🍗
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add sliced avocado or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor boost. 🥑
• Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick! 🌶️
• Gluten-free: Substitute the pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative to satisfy dietary restrictions.

This Creamy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is versatile and incredibly easy to customize, so feel free to make it your own! Enjoy every delicious bite! 😋🥗