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A close-up of a bowl filled with Creamy BLT Pasta Salad with Beef Bacon, featuring rotini pasta, crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crispy bacon.

Creamy BLT Pasta Salad with Beef Bacon

This creamy BLT pasta salad brings together crisp vegetables, savory beef bacon, and a rich ranch dressing for a satisfying dish. It is perfect for potlucks and easy meals, with vibrant layers that stand out.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the pasta salad
  • 12 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 pound beef bacon cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 half small red onion diced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 half cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 half teaspoon salt
  • 1 quarter teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Paper towels
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside to cool.
  2. Cook the beef bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then transfer to paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  3. In a bowl whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl combine cooled pasta, beef bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
  6. Just before serving add the chopped romaine lettuce and toss lightly to combine.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve chilled or at room temperature.
  8. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and stir before serving again.

Notes

Add the lettuce right before serving to keep it crisp and fresh. Ensure beef bacon is cooked thoroughly until crisp before adding to the salad.