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Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad in a white bowl with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bacon crumbles.

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and busy weeknights—ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. 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 cool. Set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.