Description
This Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a creamy, flavorful pasta salad combining crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy ranch seasoning, perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or a hearty side dish. The pasta is tossed in a rich dressing made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and a hint of garlic and black pepper, chilled to blend flavors, and garnished with extra bacon and cheese for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Bacon
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
Dressing
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Extra shredded cheese for topping (optional)
- Extra bacon for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to cool completely, stopping the cooking process and preventing sticking.
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and place on paper towels to drain excess grease. Optionally, reserve 1 to 2 tablespoons of bacon grease for added flavor in the dressing.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl along with the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions if using. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing and ingredients are well distributed.
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, garnish with additional shredded cheese, bacon, and green onions if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use light mayonnaise.
- Add diced grilled chicken or cherry tomatoes to make the dish heartier.
- This recipe is perfect for potlucks, cookouts, and family gatherings due to its creamy texture and crowd-pleasing flavors.
