Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that will make a great addition to your summer BBQ? Look no further than creamy bacon ranch pasta salad. This classic dish combines the tangy, creamy flavors of ranch dressing with the smoky, crunchy texture of bacon to create a tasty side dish that everyone will love. The best part is that it comes together in just a few minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying the summer sun. Read on to find out how to make this delicious dish.
Ingredients
For this creamy bacon ranch pasta salad, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 pound of cooked bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound of cooked pasta of your choice
Instructions
To make this creamy bacon ranch pasta salad, you'll need to follow these simple steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Add the cooked pasta and diced bacon to the bowl and mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy bacon ranch pasta salad is a great side dish to serve with grilled meats or fish. It also pairs well with a green salad. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta should I use?
You can use any type of pasta that you prefer. Penne, bow-tie, and farfalle are all good choices for this recipe.
Can I use low-fat or fat-free ranch dressing?
Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free ranch dressing if you prefer. Just be aware that the flavor of the dish may be slightly different.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just make sure that you refrigerate it for at least two hours before serving.
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, you can add other ingredients such as diced red peppers or green onions. You can also add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Can I use other types of bacon?
Yes, you can use other types of bacon such as turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon. Just be aware that the flavor of the dish may be slightly different.
