⭐️Test Kitchen Approved!⭐️This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad recipe is quick, easy and always a crowd pleaser! Creamy pasta salad loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, bacon, peas & ranch seasoning.
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Instructions
Boil pasta according to package directions, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water and stir so the noodles don’t stick. Let pasta cool while you prep the rest.
In a large bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, sour cream and mayo together until well combined. Add pasta to the bowl and stir to combine.
Toss in cheese, peas and bacon. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
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Notes
Store: Store leftover pasta salad for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You may need to add a scoop of mayo or a couple of tablespoons of bottled ranch dressing, if ranch and bacon pasta salad seems a little dry. Freezing isn't recommended for this dish. Textures and tastes of creamy dressings will change when frozen and thawed.Prep Ahead: If making a day ahead, measure the mayo and sour cream generously to retain creaminess. Many people prefer to make this dish ahead so the flavors meld. When ready to serve, know that it might suck up some of the sauce over time, so you can add a little more sour cream, mayo or even regular ranch dressing if needed.Greek Yogurt Substitute: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option. However, I recommend not using all yogurt, you need the mayonnaise to help keep it creamy.Bacon Bits: For convenience, use store-bought bacon bits also work, but freshly cooked bacon really will add the best flavor.