Description
A delicious twist on classic pasta salad, featuring crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz short pasta (rotini or elbow macaroni recommended)
- 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be a substitute)
- 1 cup liquid ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (grated, can substitute with pepper jack)
- 6 slices bacon (cooked until crispy)
- 1/2 cup green onions (chopped, chives can be an alternative)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup grilled chicken (optional for protein)
- 1 cup bell peppers (diced)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream and ranch dressing until well blended.
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl, mixing gently to combine with the dressing.
- Incorporate cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken (if using), and bell peppers. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.
Notes
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Substitute ingredients to cater to dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg