BLT Pasta Salad combines rotini pasta, crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, lettuce, and seasoned croutons tossed in a creamy ranch dressing for the ultimate crowd pleasing side dish.
From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito
If you love a classic BLT sandwich, you’re going to love this pasta salad version! It has all the flavors that make a BLT so irresistible like crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. This hearty pasta salad that’s perfect for cookouts, potlucks, barbecues, and family dinners.
The creamy ranch dressing coats every bite, while the croutons add just the perfect amout crunch. I made this for my godsons 1st birthday party and it was a huge hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with bacon for maximum BLT flavor in every bite.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd at cookouts, picnics, and potlucks.
- Easy to make ahead with just a few simple ingredients.
- Crunchy and creamy thanks to the combination of crisp lettuce, croutons, and rich dressing.
Ingredients
Here is everything you’ll need to make this delicious pasta salad. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.
- Rotini Pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto the creamy dressing.
- Bacon: Adds smoky, salty flavor and plenty of crunch.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bring freshness, sweetness, and color.
- Romaine Lettuce: Gives the salad its signature BLT flavor and crisp texture.
- Red Onion: Adds a subtle bite that balances the creamy dressing.
- Croutons: Provide a delicious crunch that makes every bite interesting.
- Mayonnaise: Creates the rich, creamy base of the dressing.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the mayo.
- Ranch Seasoning Packet: Delivers classic ranch flavor without extra ingredients.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the dressing and balances the richness.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds freshness and a pop of acidity.
How To Make It
Here’s how to make this delicious side dish. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.
- Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the tomatoes, bacon, romaine lettuce, and red onion.
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and enough milk to create a smooth, pourable dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Just before serving, top with the croutons and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Add the croutons at the last minute so they stay crisp.
- Cook the bacon until extra crispy since it will soften slightly after being mixed into the salad.
- Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly.
- Reserve a little bacon for garnishing the top before serving.
- Make the dressing ahead of time for even better flavor.
Variations
- Change the Pasta- Rotini works great, but bowties, shells, or penne are also excellent choices.
- Add Cheese- Try shredded cheddar, mozzarella pearls, or grated parmesan.
- Add More Vegetables -Diced cucumber, avocado, or chopped bell peppers make great additions.
- Lighten It Up- Substitute plain Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise.
Can BLT Pasta Salad Be Made ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, the flavor gets even better after a few hours in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the croutons until serving.
What to Serve With It
This BLT Pasta Salad pairs perfectly with burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, and sandwiches. It’s an easy side dish for cookouts, picnics, potlucks, or any casual summer meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best results, keep the croutons separate and add them just before serving. If the pasta absorbs some of the dressing during storage, stir in a splash of milk before serving to freshen it up.
This recipe is not recommended for freezing.
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Rotini Pasta, cooked until al dente and rinsed under cold water
- 10 Oz Cherry Tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1.5 Pounds Bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 Cup Hearts Of Romain, chopped
- ¼ Cup Red Onion, diced
For The Dressing
- 1 Cup Mayonnaise
- ½ Cup Sour Cream
- 1 Tbs Apple Cidar Vinegar
- 1 Oz Packet Ranch Seasoning
- 1 Tbs Lemon Juice
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Splash of Milk, or as needed to thin the dressing
Instructions
- Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the tomatoes, bacon, romaine lettuce, and red onion.
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and enough milk to create a smooth, pourable dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Just before serving, top with the croutons and enjoy!
Video
Other Easy Pasta Salad Recipes
If you like super easy to make pasta salad recipes like this one, you have to try this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, Italian Combo Pasta Salad & Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
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