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Cold bacon ranch pasta salad in a white bowl with bacon and parsley garnish.

Cold Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

This cold bacon ranch pasta salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for feeding a crowd at your next family gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 1 lb bacon
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. 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, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then crumble into small pieces.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
  4. Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, peas, red onion, and cheddar cheese to the bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with dressing.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.