Bacon Ranch Dressing Pasta Salad

Make the best Bacon Ranch Dressing Pasta Salad with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, tender pasta, and creamy ranch dressing. This easy crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and summer parties.

Prep Time10

Cook Time15

Chill Time1

Total Time1 25

Servings:

Calories: 488kcal

Author: Karin and Ken

Ingredients

1 box (16 oz) bowtie pasta rotini, penne or your favorite short pasta shape
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved, reserve a few for topping, or grape tomatoes or chopped tomatoes
2 cups chopped lettuce salad mix or chopped romaine or head lettuce (iceberg)
1 pound bacon cooked and chopped, plus more for topping
½ large red onion diced
1 ½ cups ranch dressing

Instructions

In a large non-stick pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
In a large bowl, mix the pasta, cherry tomatoes, lettuce salad mix, bacon, and red onion.
Gradually add the ranch dressing to the pasta mixture and fold it in well until completely incorporated.
Chill for thirty minutes to one hour.
Add some tomatoes and bacon to top of salad right before serving.

Video

Notes

Storage: Store bacon ranch dressing pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and serve chilled. Freezing is not recommended.
Make Ahead: Prepare up to 1 day in advance, adding the lettuce just before serving for the best texture.
Protect the texture: Cook pasta just to al dente, cool and dry it well, and add dressing gradually to prevent a mushy or watery salad.
Keep ingredients fresh: Use crispy thick-cut bacon, drain excess grease, and add lettuce plus extra toppings just before serving for the best crunch and presentation.
Boost the flavor: Chill before serving so the flavors blend, toss gently to keep ingredients intact, and taste to adjust seasoning or add extra dressing if needed.

Nutrition