Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad – Welcome to a tantalizing culinary adventure with our Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad! This delightful dish combines the savory goodness of bacon, the tangy creaminess of ranch seasoning, and the refreshing crunch of peas, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a picnic in the park, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will impress everyone around the table.
Picture this: It’s a sunny weekend afternoon, and the aroma of sizzling bacon fills the air. The kitchen is buzzing with excitement as my husband, John, and our little family eagerly await the creation of our beloved Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. This recipe has become a staple in our household, bringing us joy and culinary satisfaction on countless occasions. It all started when we stumbled upon a similar recipe during a summer potluck. The combination of smoky bacon, zesty ranch seasoning, and the refreshing burst of peas captured our hearts instantly. Since then, we’ve customized the recipe to our liking, and it has become our go-to dish for gatherings and impromptu family feasts. Join us on this delightful journey as we share our beloved recipe with you.
Why This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe is a Winner?
- Irresistible Flavor: Prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavors! The crispy, salty bacon perfectly complements the creamy and tangy ranch seasoning, while the sweet burst of peas adds a refreshing touch.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this fantastic pasta salad in no time. It’s a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Family Favorite: This recipe has earned its place as a beloved dish in our family, and we’re confident it will become a favorite in your household too. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages, making it a go-to option for family gatherings and potlucks.
- Versatile and Customizable: While this recipe is already a winner, feel free to customize it to your liking. Add extra vegetables, swap the bacon for grilled chicken or tofu, or experiment with different types of pasta. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. (227g) Mini Shells Pasta
- 2 cups (240g) Frozen Peas
- 1 cup (240g) Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup (56g) Shredded Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 Green Onions, sliced
- 6 strips of Bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 2 tbsp. Ranch Seasoning
Directions:
Begin by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the mini shells pasta. Cook the pasta until it reaches an al dente consistency.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Place the pasta in the refrigerator for approximately 10-15 minutes to chill.
In a large bowl, combine the chilled pasta, frozen peas, sliced green onions, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and the chopped bacon. Give it a good toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Return the pasta salad to the refrigerator for a final chill before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a truly irresistible taste.
When you’re ready to serve, top the pasta salad with some extra bacon and cheese for an extra indulgent touch. Grab a fork, take a generous helping, and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures!
Notes:
- If you prefer a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute for regular mayonnaise.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the salad, such as diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill.
- For a twist, try using different pasta shapes like rotini or bowtie pasta to add some visual appeal to your dish.
In conclusion, our Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful culinary masterpiece that will win the hearts and taste buds of everyone who tries it. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy ranch seasoning, refreshing peas, and tangy cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it at a family gathering, a picnic in the park, or a casual weeknight dinner, this pasta salad will always impress.
This recipe has been a beloved favorite in our household, with cherished memories of shared meals and satisfied smiles. We invite you to make it your own, customizing it with your favorite ingredients and putting your unique twist on it.
So go ahead, gather your loved ones around the table, and indulge in the flavors of our Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. It’s a dish that brings people together, sparks conversations, and creates lasting memories. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again, sharing the joy and deliciousness with those who matter most.
Treat yourself to this flavorful journey and discover why our Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a must-try recipe. From our family to yours, happy cooking and bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making this salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more. Simply prepare the salad, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. It can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Of course! While the recipe calls for frozen peas for convenience, you can definitely use fresh peas if they’re in season. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water and then cool them down before adding them to the salad.
Can I use a different type of dressing instead of ranch?
Certainly! If you’re not a fan of ranch seasoning, you can substitute it with your favorite dressing or even make a homemade dressing from scratch. Experiment with different flavors and find the combination that suits your taste buds best.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, you can omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon alternatives. If you’re looking to make it vegan, you can use vegan mayonnaise and choose a plant-based cheese substitute.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz. 227g Mini Shells Pasta
- 2 cups 240g Frozen Peas
- 1 cup 240g Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup 56g Shredded Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 Green Onions sliced
- 6 strips of Bacon chopped into small pieces
- 2 tbsp. Ranch Seasoning
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the mini shells pasta. Cook the pasta until it reaches an al dente consistency.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Place the pasta in the refrigerator for approximately 10-15 minutes to chill.
- In a large bowl, combine the chilled pasta, frozen peas, sliced green onions, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and the chopped bacon. Give it a good toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Return the pasta salad to the refrigerator for a final chill before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a truly irresistible taste.
- When you're ready to serve, top the pasta salad with some extra bacon and cheese for an extra indulgent touch. Grab a fork, take a generous helping, and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures!
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