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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad: Your BBQ Must-Have

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad is a must-have for summer BBQs, blending crispy bacon and zesty ranch in a flavorful side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz short pasta (rotini or cavatappi)
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup liquid ranch dressing Homemade ranch dressing can elevate the taste.
For Flavor & Texture
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese Grated for better integration.
  • 6 slices bacon Cooked to crispy perfection.
  • 2 green onions chopped

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Sheet Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Plastic Wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add short pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and cool slightly.
  2. Bake the Bacon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange bacon on a lined sheet pan and bake for about 25 minutes until crispy. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together sour cream and ranch dressing until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix cooled pasta, chopped green onions, grated cheddar, and half of the crispy bacon until evenly distributed.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and fold gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle remaining bacon and fresh parsley on top before serving. Can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow pasta to cool slightly before mixing, and add bacon just before serving to maintain its crispiness.

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