This classic pasta salad is a delicious summertime dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Made with a creamy ranch dressing, this pasta salad is packed full of flavor and texture. With bacon, cheese, and vegetables, this creamy ranch pasta salad is the perfect dish for a picnic, potluck, or cookout.
This creamy ranch pasta salad is super easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it with cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the diced bacon, shredded cheese, diced onions, diced tomatoes, and chopped bell peppers. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables and toss to combine.
Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and make the dish even more flavorful. Serve the pasta salad with extra ranch dressing, if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water. Place in a large bowl.
- Add the bacon, cheese, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers to the bowl with the pasta. Toss to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Pour over the pasta and vegetables and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
FAQs
How long should I cook the pasta?
Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
Do I need to use mayonnaise?
Yes, mayonnaise is an essential ingredient for this dish as it helps to bind the ingredients together and creates a creamy texture.
What type of pasta should I use?
We recommend rotini pasta for this dish, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
Can I use other vegetables in this dish?
Yes, you can use any type of vegetables you like. Some other options include corn, peas, carrots, and celery.
How long should I chill the pasta salad before serving?
We recommend chilling the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.
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