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Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or a simple family meal. Imagine the creamy ranch dressing mingling with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh cherry tomatoes. This dish is a flavor explosion, easy to whip up, and even easier to devour. Let's dive into this deliciousness!
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz any short pasta
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, bacon, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh dill.
- Toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
What You Will Need
Read more: Pasta Salad Recipe
What you will need to make bacon ranch pasta salad
- Pasta: Provides the base, absorbing flavors and adding a satisfying texture to the salad.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds a smoky, savory crunch that complements the creamy dressing.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy and tangy, it ties all the ingredients together with its rich flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, creamy bite that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Halved cherry tomatoes: Brings a burst of freshness and slight acidity to balance the richness.
- Diced red onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a mild, sweet sharpness.
- Chopped fresh dill: Infuses the salad with a bright, herby flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Tools and Instruments Required
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe
- Large pot: Needed to cook the pasta until al dente.
- Colander: Drains the cooked pasta efficiently.
- Large mixing bowl: Combines all ingredients evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Mixes the salad without damaging ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Ensures precise amounts of dressing and cheese.
- Sharp knife: Dices the red onion and chops fresh dill accurately.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
A delicious and easy pasta salad with bacon and ranch dressing.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta any short pasta
- 6 slices Bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Ranch Dressing
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup Red Onion diced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Dill chopped
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, bacon, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh dill.
- Toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes:
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.
Read more: Instant Pot Pasta Salad Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare pasta salad as directed.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate up to 2 days.
- Toss before serving.
Freezing Instructions
- Cook pasta and bacon separately.
- Cool completely.
- Combine pasta, bacon, cheese, and onion.
- Store in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze up to 1 month.
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight.
- Add ranch dressing, tomatoes, and dill before serving.
Using Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing can add a tangy twist and make the salad a bit healthier.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
It lasts about 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowties works well.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely, it's actually better if you make it a day ahead to let the flavors meld.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Sure, feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even peas.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
You can substitute with Caesar, blue cheese, or even a homemade dressing.
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