Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Ingredients

See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

Ingredient Notes:

• Rotini or Fusilli Pasta – 12 ounces of dried rotini pasta provides the perfect shape for holding onto the creamy ranch dressing. The spiral shape captures the dressing and small ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You can substitute with elbow macaroni or penne if preferred.
• Cherry Tomatoes – One cup of cherry tomatoes, sliced in half, adds fresh sweetness and bright color to balance the rich, creamy dressing. The tomatoes provide a juicy contrast to the other ingredients and help lighten the overall dish.
• Broccoli Florets – One cup of fresh broccoli florets adds nutritious crunch and vibrant green color. The broccoli should be bite-sized pieces that will maintain their texture even after being coated in the creamy dressing.
• Cucumber – One cup of diced cucumber contributes refreshing crispness and mild flavor that complements the ranch seasoning. The cucumber adds hydration and a cool element to this comfort food dish.
• Red Bell Pepper – One cup of diced red bell pepper provides sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast. The pepper adds nutritional value and a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the savory bacon.
• Cooked Bacon – 10 slices of cooked bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces, deliver the smoky, salty flavor that makes this pasta salad irresistible. Crispy bacon works best, but you can use bacon bits or crumbled bacon for convenience.
• Red Onions – Half a cup of chopped red onions adds sharp flavor and beautiful purple color. Red onions provide a mild bite that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the creamy ranch dressing.
• Black Olives – Half a cup of sliced black olives contributes briny flavor and additional texture variety. The olives add a Mediterranean touch that complements the ranch seasoning beautifully.
• Mayonnaise and Sour Cream – One cup each of mayonnaise and sour cream creates the base for the creamy ranch dressing. This combination provides richness and tang while ensuring the dressing coats the pasta perfectly.
• Ranch Dressing Mix – One ounce packet of ranch seasoning provides the signature flavor that makes this bacon ranch pasta salad special. The seasoning blend includes herbs and spices that create the classic ranch taste.

Substitutions and Additions

• Pasta Variations – Substitute rotini with fusilli, bowtie pasta, penne, or elbow macaroni. Choose shapes with curves or tubes that will hold the creamy ranch dressing well.
• Protein Options – Replace bacon with cooked chicken, steak, or ham cut into bite-sized cubes. Turkey bacon or beef bacon work well for different dietary preferences.
• Cheese Additions – Add cubed cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon bits for extra richness and flavor. Sharp cheddar pairs particularly well with the ranch seasoning.
• Vegetable Variations – Include frozen peas (thawed), diced celery, green onions, or fresh parsley for additional color and texture. Pimentos add a pop of red color and mild sweetness.
• Dressing Adjustments – Thin the creamy dressing with 1-2 tablespoons of milk if it seems too thick, or add extra ranch seasoning for more intense flavor.

How to Make Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step Directions)

STEP 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions, cooking 1-2 minutes longer than al dente to ensure the pasta stays tender after refrigeration. The pasta should be fully cooked but still have a slight bite. (Photo 1)

STEP 2. Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. This step is crucial – never add fresh vegetables or creamy dressing to hot pasta as it will wilt the vegetables and cause the dressing to separate. (Photo 2)

STEP 3. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, chopped cooked bacon, chopped red onions, and sliced black olives. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly. (Photo 3)

STEP 4. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as desired. (Photos 4 & 5)

STEP 6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the creamy dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving cold.