Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta: A Flavorful Summer Side

This Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick, crowd-pleasing side perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz short pasta such as rotini or elbow macaroni
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup sour cream can substitute with Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup liquid ranch dressing store-bought or homemade
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese can substitute with pepper jack
  • 8 slices bacon or grilled chicken for a healthier twist
For Freshness
  • 4 stalks green onions sliced; chives can be a substitute
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes optional for sweetness and color
  • 1 cup bell peppers optional for extra crunch

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay bacon on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop once cooled.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and liquid ranch dressing. Whisk until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, sliced green onions, and half of the chopped bacon. Toss to combine.
  5. Pour ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad and add remaining chopped bacon and any additional garnishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad is best served cold or at room temperature and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!