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Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Ranch Dressing Version

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A quick and easy creamy BLT pasta salad with homemade ranch dressing, combining smoky bacon, crisp veggies, and tender pasta for a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces rigatoni and cook according to package instructions, about 11-13 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 6 slices thick-cut bacon and cook until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup buttermilk. Whisk in dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.
  4. Wash and chop 2 cups Romaine lettuce, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1/4 cup red onion, and shred 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Place all in a large mixing bowl.
  5. Add cooled pasta and chopped bacon to the bowl with veggies. Pour the ranch dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, give it a gentle toss and add extra shredded cheese or chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent stickiness. Cook bacon until crisp but not burnt. Dressing can be made ahead and chilled. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. If salad feels dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon or two of buttermilk before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add fresh greens before serving if lettuce softens.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, homemade ranch dressing, bacon pasta salad, easy pasta salad, picnic salad, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/creamy-blt-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-ranch-dressing-version/