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Savory Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Delight

A creamy, smoky, and satisfying pasta salad loaded with crispy bacon, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty ranch dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 8 oz bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 0.5 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Ranch Dressing
  • 0.75 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Method
 

Steps
  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, make this salad ahead of time—it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. Add cooked chicken or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.