Go Back
–+ servings
bacon ranch pasta salad in a black serving bowl

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

This Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is loaded with crispy bacon, romaine, juicy tomatoes, cheddar, and creamy homemade ranch for an easy, crowd-friendly side.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Pasta, Salad
Cuisine: American
Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 417kcal
Author: Ruth Truett

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • spatula

Ingredients

  • 1 lb short pasta
  • 1 lb bacon cooked crisp and chopped
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 4-5 cups romaine hearts chopped
  • 1 bunch green onions sliced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cubed or shredded
  • kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in well-salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
  • Cook the bacon: Cook until crisp, then drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • Make the ranch: Stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning.
  • Assemble the salad: Add the cooled pasta, bacon, tomatoes, cheddar, and green onions to a large bowl. Pour over the ranch and toss until well coated.
  • Add the romaine: Just before serving, fold in the chopped romaine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve: Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to eat.

Notes

Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits. Add a splash of milk or buttermilk to loosen everything back up before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 417kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 512mg | Potassium: 240mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1925IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 132mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!