Save A creamy, savory pasta salad featuring smoky bacon, tangy ranch, and rich Alfredo sauce, perfect for gatherings or as a satisfying side dish.
I first made this pasta salad for a summer barbecue, and it quickly became a favorite thanks to the luscious Alfredo dressing and crispy bacon. It always disappears fast from the buffet table!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) rotini or penne pasta
- Meats: 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 cup cucumber, diced, 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped, 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (optional)
- Cheeses: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Dressings & Sauces: 3/4 cup prepared Alfredo sauce, 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Herbs & Seasonings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare Bacon:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, corn, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Make Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together Alfredo sauce and ranch dressing until smooth.
- Dress and Toss:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta salad ingredients. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Season:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in chopped parsley.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Toss again before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan, if desired.
Save This salad was a hit at our last family reunion, with everyone coming back for seconds. My kids love the creamy dressing and I love how the vegetables add freshness to each bite.
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, Alfredo sauce, ranch dressing), Egg (ranch dressing, possibly Alfredo), Wheat (pasta); Contains pork (bacon). May contain gluten depending on pasta and sauces—consider gluten-free alternatives. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 510, Total Fat 30 g, Carbohydrates 41 g, Protein 19 g.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad pairs well with a crisp green salad or grilled chicken, and is delicious with chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Save Bring a pop of flavor to your next gathering with this creamy, savory pasta salad—it's sure to be requested again!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, rotini or penne work well, but you can use any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle for similar results.
- → What alternatives can I use for bacon?
Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon substitutes offer lighter options while maintaining a smoky flavor.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free pasta and verify that your Alfredo sauce and ranch dressing do not contain gluten.
- → What proteins can I add for a main dish?
Cooked diced chicken or grilled shrimp enhance this pasta salad for a heartier main course.
- → How can I adjust the flavor?
Homemade Alfredo and ranch sauces add freshness, while extra herbs or a bit of garlic give more depth.
- → How long can I store this pasta salad?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Toss well before serving for best texture and flavor.