Description
A creamy pasta salad loaded with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a tangy ranch dressing, perfect for summer picnics and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Pasta (short pasta, like rotini or cavatappi)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup Liquid Ranch Dressing (homemade for elevated taste)
- 6 oz Cheddar Cheese (grated for sharper flavor)
- 1 lb Bacon (cooked to crispy perfection)
- ½ cup Green Onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Cool the pasta fully.
- Cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels. Chop into bite-size pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk sour cream and ranch dressing until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl. Stir to coat every piece.
- Fold in grated cheddar, chopped bacon, and green onions. Stir gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a pinch of salt or extra ranch if desired.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or slightly chilled.
Notes
This salad can be served as a main or side dish. Pairs well with grilled options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: pasta salad, creamy pasta, summer recipes, bacon cheddar, picnic food