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BLT Pasta Salad

This BLT Pasta Salad is a creamy, satisfying twist on the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. Tender pasta is tossed with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce, then coated in a rich ranch-style dressing. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for summer cookouts, BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. The combination of smoky bacon, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing makes this pasta salad a guaranteed crowd favorite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Picnic Food, Summer BBQ
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon or salad tongs
  • Small whisk or fork

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Cook the Bacon
  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven until crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and chop green onions if using.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and dressing. Toss until evenly coated.
Add Lettuce and Serve
  1. Gently fold in the chopped lettuce and green onions just before serving. Chill for about 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal

Notes

  • Add lettuce right before serving to keep it crisp.
  • If the pasta salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a small spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice.
  • For extra flavor, add shredded cheddar cheese or diced avocado.
  • Thick-cut bacon gives the best smoky texture.
  • The salad tastes even better after chilling for 30–60 minutes.

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