If you've been looking for a healthy meal that's always a crowd-pleaser, you can't go wrong with bacon ranch pasta salad. The irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing and tender pasta are sure to be a hit, whether you're preparing for a casual family dinner or a summer potluck with friends.
We're guiding you through the simple steps to bring this pasta salad recipe to life, including key tips and tricks for a successful process every time.
Bacon ranch pasta salad: Perfect for any occasion
Whether you're the family chef or new to the kitchen, bacon ranch pasta salad is a must-have recipe that everyone can enjoy. It's a versatile dish that's easy to prepare, making it a stress-free option for those running a busy household. You can even make the recipe in advance on hectic days, or adjust the ingredients to accommodate your loved ones' dietary needs and taste preferences. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, a bacon ranch pasta salad will quickly become a family favorite.
Preparing bacon ranch pasta salad to perfection
Serves: 8
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Chill time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon, chopped.
- 16 oz. box of pasta.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced.
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped.
- 1 bag frozen peas, thawed.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded.
- 1 cup ranch dressing.
- 16 oz. container of sour cream.
- ½ cup mayonnaise.
- 1 Tbs. fresh dill, chopped.
- 2 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped.
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
Bring a bacon ranch pasta salad recipe to life in your kitchen
- Step 1: In a large skillet, cook your bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Then, set aside.
- Step 2: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions — preferably until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- Step 3: While the pasta is cooling, prepare the cherry tomatoes, cucumber and red onion. Then, thaw your bag of frozen peas by running them under warm water or leaving them at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine the dressing, sour cream, mayonnaise, dill and parsley. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated, then add salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: In a large bowl, combine your cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, vegetables and cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Step 6: Now, pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well coated with the ranch dressing mix.
- Step 7: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, garnish the salad with more parsley or bacon.
If you're eager to jump in, you can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Tips and tricks for homemade bacon ranch pasta salad
New to cooking? No problem! This simple recipe is easy to perfect. Here are a few helpful hints to consider for the best results every time:
- Choose the right pasta: Although it might not seem important at first, the type of pasta you choose can greatly impact your final dish. Pasta shapes like rotini or bowtie are recommended because they hold the creamy ranch dressing mix well and add texture.
- Find the right bacon: There are plenty of bacon cuts to choose from, whether you prefer a classic option or an extra thick cut like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon. Alternatively, you might opt for an uncured selection, such as Hatfield® No Antibiotics Ever Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon, for a natural, savory flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente: Monitor your cooking time carefully. Aim for your bowtie or rotini pasta to be al dente for the right salad texture, avoiding it becoming mushy or overly firm.
- Make a homemade ranch dressing: If you have some extra time, consider making a homemade ranch dressing to elevate your salad. With just a few fresh herbs and spices, you can enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Garnish for extra appeal: Don't forget to top your salad with extra crumbled bacon, chopped parsley and even shredded cheese for added visual appeal and taste.
Answering your recipe FAQs
Here's a closer look at some of the most commonly asked questions you might run into along the way:
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming soggy?
Aim to prepare the pasta al dente, according to package instructions, and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. It can also help to toss it immediately with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and moisture absorption. That way, the pasta retains its texture in the salad.
How far in advance can I prepare the salad?
If you run a hectic household, you can prepare bacon ranch pasta salad up to 24 hours in advance. Simply keep your finished product refrigerated in an airtight container. Once you're ready to serve, add fresh garnishes like chopped herbs or additional crispy bacon crumbles for extra flavor and presentation.
What can I use as a substitute for ranch dressing?
Feel free to substitute ranch dressing with a homemade mix of Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill and a splash of buttermilk or lemon juice for tanginess. You can adjust these ingredients to your family's taste for a more personalized dressing.
How can I add extra protein to the salad?
Looking for a protein boost? You can add grilled chicken breast strips, cooked shrimp, diced hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas to your bacon ranch pasta salad. These hearty additions are a great complement to the salad's flavors.
How long will leftovers last?
Keep in mind that leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days. Make sure you place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the dish or eat it cold for a convenient leftover meal option.
Hatfield: Your Shortcut to Flavorful Mealtime Bliss
For your next family meal or gathering, consider trying a bacon ranch pasta salad recipe! It's quick, easy and versatile, making it adaptable to any of your dietary needs or taste preferences.
As you jump in, remember that the quality and safety of the bacon you choose are essential. Hatfield is a trusted pork provider known for high-quality bacon that guarantees safety and delicious flavor for your family. This helps you elevate your cooking experience and ensure a successful meal every time. Trust Hatfield to deliver flavorful bliss in every bite and make your mealtime moments truly special.
Ready to get started? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield pork products today!
