Description

A creamy, crunchy pasta salad loaded with smoky bacon, fresh veggies, sharp cheddar, and zesty ranch dressing. Perfect for Labor Day, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces rotini pasta
8 slices thick-cut bacon
1 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 green onions, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup sweet bell peppers, diced (red and yellow mix)
1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon salt per 4 quarts water). Add the rotini and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Drain thoroughly.
While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook bacon strips until crispy but not burnt, about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
Slice green onions, halve cherry tomatoes, dice bell peppers, chop parsley, and slice olives if using.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth.
Add cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, green onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and parsley to the bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat. Season with salt and pepper carefully.
Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Toss again and garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and improve texture. Use thick-cut bacon cooked on medium heat for best flavor and texture. Rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent sogginess. For a lighter version, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt. Vegetarian option: omit bacon and add extra veggies or toasted nuts.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 390
Sugar: 5
Sodium: 680
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 3
Protein: 15

Keywords: pasta salad, bacon ranch pasta salad, Labor Day recipe, summer salad, potluck recipe, creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad