Can I make club sandwich pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this club sandwich pasta salad is ideal for making ahead. Prepare the pasta, proteins, and dressing up to 24 hours in advance and store them chilled. Add lettuce and a little extra mayonnaise just before serving to keep the texture fresh.

What pasta works best for a club sandwich pasta salad recipe?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, bowtie, or penne work best because they hold the creamy dressing well and mix evenly with chicken, turkey, and bacon.

Can I use only chicken or only turkey in this recipe?

Absolutely. This easy chicken club pasta salad works perfectly with just chicken, while turkey alone creates a delicious turkey club pasta salad. Both options keep the classic club sandwich flavor.

How do I keep a chicken and bacon pasta salad with mayo from drying out?

If the salad thickens after chilling, stir in a small amount of mayonnaise or milk before serving to refresh the creamy dressing and restore texture.

Club Sandwich Pasta Salad – Easy, Creamy, Family-Friendly Recipe 2026

Description

A creamy, flavor-packed pasta salad inspired by the classic club sandwich. Loaded with tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, turkey, fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and a smooth mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, meal prep, or an easy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

For the Pasta Salad:

12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup cooked turkey, diced
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2–3 tablespoons milk (to thin, if needed)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add milk a little at a time until the dressing reaches a creamy but pourable consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, turkey, bacon, tomatoes, cheese, onion, and lettuce.

Step 4: Mix & Chill
Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve
Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Add extra bacon or cheese on top if desired.

Notes

Make Ahead: Prepare everything except the lettuce up to 24 hours ahead; stir in lettuce just before serving.
Extra Creamy: Add an extra 2–3 tablespoons of mayonnaise before serving if needed.
Protein Swap: Use all chicken or all turkey if preferred.
Healthier Option: Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Salad / Pasta Salad
Method: Boiled / Mixed / Chilled
Cuisine: American