Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad
A cool and refreshing pasta salad tossed in a creamy ranch dressing with crisp vegetables and cheese. This easy side dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or everyday meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
- Pasta (rotini or bowtie)
- Ranch dressing
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- Cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
- Add cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and bacon if using.
- Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve chilled.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Swap cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.
- Add vegetables like corn or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add extra dressing before serving if it thickens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/creamy-ranch-pasta-salad/
