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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta – Your New Favorite Side Dish

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Short Pasta (Rotini or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Consider Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
  • 1 cup Liquid Ranch Dressing Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (grated) Pepper jack can be used for a spicy kick.
  • 6 slices Bacon (cooked until crispy) Bake for optimal crispiness.
  • ½ cup Green Onions (chopped) Chives can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Optional add-in for sweetness.
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken (optional) Adds protein and makes the salad filling.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers (diced) Mix in various colors for visual appeal.
For Drizzle (optional)
  • 1 cup Extra Ranch Dressing Drizzle on top before serving.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Sheet Pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • colander
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment and arrange bacon in a single layer. Bake for approximately 25 minutes until crispy. Cool and chop into pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup sour cream and 1 cup liquid ranch dressing until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped green onions, grated cheddar cheese, and half of the bacon pieces. Stir gently.
  5. Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle remaining bacon on top and garnish with additional green onions or cherry tomatoes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost. Always serve chilled for the best experience.

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