Nothing says summer like a classic pasta salad. This delicious cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad is packed with flavor and perfect for parties, picnics, and potlucks. The creamy ranch dressing, crunchy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese make this dish a crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-make salad is also a great way to use up leftover pasta.
Ingredients
This cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad requires just a few simple ingredients. You will need cooked pasta, sharp cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and a few additional seasonings.
- 1 pound cooked macaroni or rotini pasta
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
This cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad is quick and easy to make. Start by cooking the pasta according to package directions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Place the cooled pasta in a large bowl and add the remaining ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is combined.
Once the salad is mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to combine. Serve cold.
Serving Suggestions
This cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad is a great side dish for any summer meal. Serve it with burgers, grilled chicken, or steak. It also makes a great lunch or light dinner. You can also use this salad as a topping for tacos or burritos.
Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives.
- For a spicier salad, add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- If you don't have cooked bacon on hand, you can use pre-cooked bacon bits from the grocery store.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad?
To make cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad, cook the pasta according to package directions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Place the cooled pasta in a large bowl and add the remaining ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is combined. Once the salad is mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to combine. Serve cold.
What can I add to cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad?
For extra flavor, you can add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives. You can also add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier salad. You can also use whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier version.
Can I make cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to combine. The salad will stay fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad?
This cheddar bacon ranch pasta salad is a great side dish for any summer meal. Serve it with burgers, grilled chicken, or steak. It also makes a great lunch or light dinner. You can also use this salad as a topping for tacos or burritos.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon in this salad?
Yes, if you don't have cooked bacon on hand, you can use pre-cooked bacon bits from the grocery store.
