Can I use pre-made bacon bits instead of cooking fresh bacon?

Yes, but for the best flavor, use only real bacon bits, not imitation ones. Fresh cooked bacon will always provide the best taste and texture, but high-quality store-bought bacon bits can work in a pinch when you're short on time.

What type of lettuce works best in this pasta salad?

Romaine or iceberg lettuce work exceptionally well because they maintain a nice crunch. You could also use butter lettuce for a softer texture or a spring mix for more variety. Whatever you choose, make sure it's fresh and crisp for the best results.

My pasta salad seems dry after being refrigerated. What should I do?

This is completely normal! Pasta naturally absorbs dressing as it sits. Simply stir in a few additional tablespoons of ranch dressing before serving to restore the creamy texture. Start with a small amount and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this salad healthier?

Absolutely! Try using whole wheat pasta for added fiber, light ranch dressing to reduce calories, turkey bacon instead of pork bacon, and load up on extra vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat variety.

Ranch BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Ranch BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces cavatappi pasta; 1 pound bacon, small diced; 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese block, small diced; 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise; 4 scallions, thinly sliced; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; 4 cups lettuce, small diced; 2 ½ cups ranch dressing

Description

This Ranch BLT Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish perfect for gatherings or family meals. Packed with crunchy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, fresh veggies, and tender pasta, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser with a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad:

16 ounces cavatappi pasta
1 pound bacon, small diced
8 ounces Colby Jack cheese block, small diced
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
4 cups lettuce, small diced

For the Dressing:

2 1/2 cups ranch dressing

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Cook the cavatappi pasta to al dente according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Allow the pasta to drip dry completely, as it needs to be as dry as possible to prevent sogginess. Set aside.
Prepare the Bacon
Dice the bacon into small pieces and cook in a skillet until it becomes crispy. Once done, place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess grease. Set aside.
Combine the Ingredients
In a very large bowl, add the cooked pasta, diced Colby Jack cheese, halved grape tomatoes, thinly sliced scallions, red onion, and ranch dressing. Toss everything together until well combined.
Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.
Final Touches
Just before serving, add the crispy bacon and diced lettuce to the salad. Toss everything together one final time to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Add Bacon and Lettuce Last: Always add the bacon and lettuce just before serving to keep the lettuce from wilting and the bacon from getting soggy.
Bacon Tips: While bacon bits can be used in a pinch, opt for real bacon for the best flavor and texture.
Lettuce Options: You can use various types of lettuce depending on your preference.
Pasta Choices: Feel free to substitute cavatappi pasta with other small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli.
Cheese Alternatives: Switch up the cheese for different flavors, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
Customizations: Add your favorite vegetables like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for added crunch.
Dress It Up: If stored overnight, the pasta may absorb the dressing. Before serving, add a touch more dressing to bring back the creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 540 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 9 g
Cholesterol: 28 mg