If you’re on the hunt for a versatile, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dish, look no further than this creamy pasta salad. Loaded with tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a rich, tangy dressing, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or looking for a simple side dish for dinner, creamy pasta salad has you covered.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pasta Salad
- Simple to Make: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s ideal as a side dish for potlucks, BBQs, or family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it a great option for meal prep or make-ahead events.
Ingredients for Creamy Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz small pasta noodles: Shells, elbows, or bowties work perfectly to hold the creamy dressing.
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed): Add sweetness and a pop of color.
- 12 oz thick-cut bacon (cooked and chopped): Provides a smoky, salty crunch.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the flavor with a nutty, savory touch.
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, giving it richness and creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth, silky texture.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Provides a tangy bite to balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to round out the acidity.
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic for a balanced flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a slight kick of spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Ingredients
- Thaw the frozen peas by running them under cold water or letting them sit at room temperature.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese if not already prepared.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta Salad
- Choose the Right Pasta: Small pasta shapes like shells, elbows, or rotini work best because they hold the dressing and other ingredients well.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it retains its structure and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the dressing.
- Chill for Better Flavor: While you can serve the salad immediately, chilling it allows the flavors to develop and meld together.
- Customize It: Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill to suit your preferences.
Why This Creamy Pasta Salad is Perfect for Any Occasion
- Potlucks and Parties: Its crowd-pleasing flavors and easy preparation make it a great choice for gatherings.
- Barbecues: The creamy and slightly tangy dressing pairs perfectly with grilled meats and smoky flavors.
- Family Dinners: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or as a main dish for a light, satisfying meal.
- Make-Ahead Meals: It stores well in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy dressing, this pasta salad is not freezer-friendly.
- Revive Leftovers: If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or olive oil to refresh the texture.
Variations to Try
- Lighter Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce calories while keeping it creamy.
- Add Protein: Mix in shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier dish.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers.
- Zesty Twist: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or lemon juice for a tangy flavor boost.
Health Benefits of Creamy Pasta Salad
- Balanced Ingredients: This salad offers a mix of carbs (pasta), protein (bacon and Parmesan), and fiber (peas).
- Customizable: You can make it healthier by using whole-grain pasta or low-fat mayonnaise.
- Portion Control: Serve it as a side dish to keep portions moderate while enjoying its rich flavors.
FAQs About Creamy Pasta Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s better when made ahead, as the flavors meld together beautifully after chilling for a few hours.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you’d like to serve it warm, reheat gently and add a bit more dressing to keep it creamy.
Can I substitute the bacon?
Absolutely! Try turkey bacon, pancetta, or even a vegetarian bacon alternative for a different twist.
🥗 Creamy Bacon Pasta Salad: A Potluck Favorite! 🥓✨
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick-cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2️⃣ Prep Ingredients: Thaw peas, cook and crumble bacon, and grate parmesan. Set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve: Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld, or serve immediately if you’re short on time.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness and flavor.
- Want extra veggies? Add diced red bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
- This salad can be made ahead of time—just give it a quick stir before serving!
Final Thoughts on Creamy Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad is a classic dish that’s easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and always a hit at the table. The combination of tender pasta, crisp peas, smoky bacon, and tangy dressing makes it a satisfying side for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, bringing a dish to a potluck, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and watch it disappear—this creamy pasta salad is truly irresistible!