Description
A creamy, flavor-packed ranch pasta salad loaded with tender pasta, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh veggies. This easy ranch pasta salad is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a quick family side dish. It’s cool, creamy, and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 8–10):
For the Salad:
1 lb (16 oz) rotini or bowtie pasta
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6–8 slices)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
½ cup diced red onion
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup diced cucumber (optional)
For the Creamy Ranch Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup ranch dressing (Hidden Valley works great)
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (optional for extra flavor)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
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 directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, ranch seasoning (if using), garlic powder, pepper, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, bacon, cheddar cheese, peas, red onion, tomatoes, and cucumber.
Step 4: Mix & Chill
Pour the creamy ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Stir before serving. Add a splash of milk or extra ranch if needed to refresh the creaminess.
Notes
• For a hidden valley ranch pasta salad recipe with mayo, use equal parts mayo and bottled Hidden Valley Ranch for the best creamy texture.
• Want extra crunch? Add chopped broccoli or bell peppers.
• Make it heartier by adding diced grilled chicken.
• For the best ranch pasta salad recipe flavor, chill overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–2 hours
- Category: Side Dish / Pasta Salad
- Method: Boiled / Mixed / Chilled
- Cuisine: American