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Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Ranch Dressing Delight

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A quick and easy creamy BLT pasta salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a homemade 5-ingredient ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a no-fuss weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it off. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 6 slices thick-cut bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 teaspoon dried dill, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it thinner, add a splash of milk or water. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. To the cooled pasta, add chopped bacon, 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese if using. Pour the ranch dressing over everything and gently toss to coat evenly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Give it a gentle stir before serving.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after chilling. Use thick-cut bacon for better texture. Homemade ranch dressing is fresher and tastier than store-bought. Add lettuce just before serving to prevent sogginess. Dressing and bacon can be made a day ahead and stored separately.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, ranch dressing, bacon salad, easy pasta salad, potluck recipe, quick dinner

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/creamy-blt-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-5-ingredient-ranch-dressing-delight/