This Hearty Broccoli and Bacon Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick lunch, or looking for a side dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful, this recipe has you covered. With a delightful combination of crisp baby broccoli, savory bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy ranch-flavored dressing, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this easy yet delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked pasta (any shape, such as medium shells)
- 2 cups of tender steamed baby broccoli florets
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, diced into 1/4-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta and Prepare Ingredients: Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and let it cool. While the pasta is cooling, steam the baby broccoli florets until tender but still crisp. Dice the bacon and fry it in a pan until crispy, then set it aside to drain on paper towels.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ranch seasoning mix, cider vinegar, sugar, water, garlic powder, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed baby broccoli, diced bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Season and Chill: Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed. For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a quick toss, and it’s ready to serve. This dish is perfect on its own or as a side to your favorite main course.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Broccoli and Bacon Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your recipe rotation. The creamy ranch dressing complements the crunchy broccoli and crispy bacon, while the sharp cheddar adds a delightful burst of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether for a potluck, a picnic, or a casual meal at home, this pasta salad is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!