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Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

A hearty and comforting pasta salad with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing, perfect for family gatherings and picnics.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 8 oz rotini pasta Feel free to swap for farfalle or penne.
  • 6 slices bacon Crispy and crumbled.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved for a fresh pop.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Diced, or use your favorite cheese.
  • 1/2 cup green onions Sliced.
  • 1 cup ranch dressing Homemade or store-bought will do.
  • Salt and pepper To taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and add the rotini pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and let drain on paper towels, then crumble.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions.
Mixing and Chilling
  1. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture, season with salt and pepper, and stir until well coated.
  2. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving
  1. Serve and enjoy! This salad is perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Notes

This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors may improve with chilling.