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+ servings

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

A creamy and flavorful pasta salad with bacon,chicken, fresh veggies, and a ranch-inspired dressing, perfect as a side ormain dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 5
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 8 ounces rigatoni shells, rotini, or penne (cooked and drained)
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups cooked chopped chicken
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced, divided
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes halved
  • ½ cup diced cheddar cheese cut into ¼-inch cubes
  • ½ avocado for garnish, optional

For the Dressing:

  • cup mayonnaise
  • cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons milk or as needed
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh chives or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 2 teaspoons of freshly chopped dill (or 1 teaspoon if using dried
  • 2 teaspoons of finely chopped parsley or 1 ½ teaspoons dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it reaches al dente texture, following the package directions. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to halt the cooking. Set aside.
  • Prepare the Bacon and Chicken : Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. If not already cooked, prepare the chicken by grilling, baking, or sautéing it until fully cooked. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • Make the Dressing : In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and milk until smooth. Mix in the chives, dill, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If the mixture is too thick, thin it out by adding more milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • Assemble the Salad : In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, chopped chicken, half of the green onions, grape tomatoes, and diced cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  • Garnish and Serve : Top the salad with the remaining green onions and slices of avocado, if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcal
Keyword Creamy pasta salad
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