Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad (Simple Recipe)

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Are you looking for a tasty and easy side dish? Bacon ranch pasta salad is perfect for you! This yummy recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make. It’s great for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners.

You can whip up this delicious pasta salad with just a few simple ingredients. The mix of bacon, ranch dressing, and cheese gives it a flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time and keeps well in the fridge. Give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this yummy bacon ranch pasta salad:

• 1 (12-ounce) package of tri-color rotini pasta
• 10 slices bacon
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons dry ranch salad dressing mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup milk (or more as needed)
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 (4.25-ounce) can of sliced black olives
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

These ingredients will make about 10 servings. You can easily adjust the amounts if you need to make more or less.

Remember, you can always add a bit more milk if the salad seems dry after chilling. This will help keep it nice and creamy.

Instructions

Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook it as directed on the package. When done, drain and rinse with cool water.

While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a large skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy. Drain the grease and chop the bacon into small pieces.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayo, dry ranch mix, garlic pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well. Add milk slowly until you get a creamy texture.

Next, add the cooled pasta, chopped tomato, olives, bacon pieces, and cheddar cheese to the dressing. Mix gently to coat everything evenly.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Put it in the fridge to chill for at least an hour. You can leave it overnight if you want.

Before serving, check if the salad seems dry. If it does, add a bit more milk and mix. Your bacon ranch pasta salad is now ready to enjoy!

Possible Substitutes List

You can swap out some ingredients in this bacon ranch pasta salad to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry. Here are some easy swaps:

• Pasta: Try penne, bow-tie, or shells instead of rotini
• Bacon: Turkey bacon or veggie bacon bits work too
• Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack
• Veggies: Add cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. If you don’t have ranch mix, make your own with dried herbs and spices. No garlic pepper? Just use black pepper and extra garlic powder.

Want it dairy-free? Skip the cheese and use a vegan mayo. For gluten-free, pick a gluten-free pasta and check your ranch mix label.

Remember, these swaps might change the flavor a bit, but they’ll still give you a yummy pasta salad. Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect dish!

How To Make It Diabetes-Friendly

To make this bacon ranch pasta salad more diabetes-friendly, try these easy swaps:

Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular. It has more fiber and fewer carbs.

Cut the bacon amount in half. This lowers the fat and calories.

Replace full-fat mayo with Greek yogurt. It’s high in protein and lower in calories.

Add extra veggies like diced cucumbers and bell peppers. They’re low in carbs and high in nutrients.

Use less cheese or pick a stronger flavored one. A little goes a long way.

Skip the olives or use fewer. They’re high in sodium.

Make your own ranch mix to control the salt. Use dried herbs and spices instead.

Watch your portion size. Stick to 1/2 cup servings.

These changes make the salad better for blood sugar. You’ll still get great flavor with less worry.

Remember to check with your doctor about what’s best for your diet. Everyone’s needs are different.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make this pasta salad a day ahead for the best flavor. The extra time lets all the tastes mix together. When you’re ready to eat, give it a quick stir and add a splash of milk if needed.

Try different add-ins to make it your own. Diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions can add crunch. For a protein boost, toss in some diced chicken or ham.

Don’t overcook the pasta. Aim for al dente to keep it from getting mushy. Rinse the cooked pasta in cold water to stop it from cooking more and to cool it down fast.

Store your pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3-5 days. If it dries out, just mix in a bit more ranch dressing or milk.

For easy serving at picnics or parties, use small containers or mason jars. This way, everyone can grab their own portion without a mess.

Save time by using pre-cooked bacon bits. They work great in this recipe and cut down on prep work. Just sprinkle them in with the other ingredients.