Description
This easy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight side dish. It’s packed with flavor and comes together quickly.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 8 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bottle (16 ounces) ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or corn.
- For a tangier flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing.
- This salad is best served cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (after pasta is cooked)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup