Name: BLT Pasta Salad: Creamy, Crunchy, and Perfectly Refreshing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Farfalle Pasta (Can substitute with rotini or penne.); 6 slices Bacon (Can substitute with turkey bacon.); 2 cups Romaine Lettuce (Iceberg lettuce can be used as an alternative.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Any small tomato variety will suffice.); ¼ cup Red Onion (Consider using green onions for a milder taste.); ½ cup Ranch Dressing (Homemade is preferred for best flavor.); 2 tablespoons BBQ Sauce (Optional addition; omit for a classic flavor.); Avocado (Optional for a creamy texture.); Cheese (Like feta or cheddar for added creaminess.); ½ cup Milk (Used in the dressing.); ½ cup Sour Cream (Used in the dressing.); 1 packet Ranch Seasoning (For dressing.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzling sound of bacon filled the air, tempting my senses and igniting my appetite. Today, I’m excited to share my creamy BLT Pasta Salad, a delightful twist on the classic sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion. This quick and easy dish combines crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, and sweet cherry tomatoes mingling with farfalle pasta, all enveloped in a dreamy Ranch dressing. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a satisfying side at summer picnics or as a main dish for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, feel free to customize with optional additions like creamy avocado or your favorite cheese. Could a salad get any better? Let’s dive in and make it together!

Why is BLT Pasta Salad a Must-Try?

Creamy, Dreamy Flavor: Each bite delivers a tantalizing blend of savory bacon and zesty Ranch dressing that dances on your palate.

Quick to Prepare: Made in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for those weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.

Fresh Ingredients: Crisp romaine and vibrant cherry tomatoes add a refreshing touch, making it feel light yet satisfying.

Endless Customization: Add grilled chicken, corn, or even avocado to make it your own—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this meal!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch it disappear—everyone loves a creamy pasta salad that nods to a classic favorite!

Pair it with a side dish like Pineapple Cucumber Salad for a complete meal that’s both delicious and easy!

BLT Pasta Salad Ingredients

• The perfect blend of flavors awaits!

For the Pasta

Farfalle Pasta – The base of the salad that gives structure; rotini or penne can be swapped if you prefer.

For the Salad

Bacon – Adds a rich, crunchy texture; feel free to substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Romaine Lettuce – Freshness with a crisp bite; iceberg lettuce is a great alternative if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they enhance the flavor; any small tomato variety will do.
Red Onion – Introduces a mild sharpness; consider green onions for a milder taste or skip entirely.

For the Dressing

Ranch Dressing – The creamy, tangy glue that binds everything; while store-bought is quick, homemade dressing truly elevates the dish.
BBQ Sauce – This optional addition brings a smoky sweetness; omit it for a classic flavor or replace it with hot sauce for heat.

Optional Additions

Avocado – For a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the salad.
Cheese – Adding cheese like feta or cheddar can intensify the creaminess, making the dish even more indulgent.

Make sure to gather all these ingredients to create a creamy BLT Pasta Salad that’s sure to impress your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a large measuring cup, whisk together ½ cup of milk, ½ cup of sour cream, and one packet of Ranch seasoning until smooth. The mixture will thicken as it cools, so refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This creamy Ranch dressing is the heart of your BLT Pasta Salad, bringing everything together deliciously.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add 8 ounces of farfalle pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, typically about 10–12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread it out on a sheet pan to cool down for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Bacon
In a large skillet, add 6 slices of bacon over low heat. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is evenly crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Allow it to cool slightly before chopping it into bite-sized pieces, setting aside some for garnishing your finished BLT Pasta Salad.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and pour in ½ cup of the prepared Ranch dressing. Gently toss the pasta with the dressing until each piece is thoroughly coated. This creamy mixture serves as a delicious base for the remaining ingredients of your BLT Pasta Salad, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables and Bacon
To the bowl with the pasta, add 2 cups of chopped romaine lettuce, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and ¼ cup of chopped red onion. Also, include ¾ of the chopped bacon and 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce if using. Gently toss everything together, taking care not to crush the lettuce, ensuring a fresh, light texture throughout your BLT Pasta Salad.

Step 6: Serve or Chill
Transfer the BLT Pasta Salad into a serving bowl, topping it with the reserved bacon pieces for a crispy finish. You can serve it immediately for a delightful meal or cover and chill it for up to 3 hours to let the flavors meld together. Either way, this dish promises a refreshing and satisfying experience that everyone will love!

Tips for the Best BLT Pasta Salad

Crispy Bacon Essential: Ensure your bacon is perfectly crispy; this adds the best texture and flavor to your BLT Pasta Salad. If it’s chewy, the salad may lose its delightful crunch.
Cool Pasta Thoroughly: Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing. This prevents wilting the greens and maintains the freshness of the salad.
Reserve Dressing: Save a portion of the Ranch dressing to serve on the side. This way, diners who enjoy extra dressing can customize their servings as they like.
Add Ingredients Last: If preparing ahead, mix the lettuce and tomatoes only just before serving. This keeps your salad vibrant and prevents sogginess.
Taste Before Serving: Always give your BLT Pasta Salad a taste test before serving! Adjust seasoning or add a splash more Ranch dressing if needed for optimal flavor.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this delightful BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during your busy week! You can cook the farfalle pasta and crisp the bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep the pasta from getting soggy and the bacon crispy. Additionally, you can prepare the Ranch dressing mixture up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it and give it a good stir before use. When it’s time to serve, simply combine the chilled pasta, bacon, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and the dressing, ensuring that everything is fresh and vibrant for a delicious meal! Enjoy the comfort of knowing your BLT Pasta Salad is ready to go, making your mealtime stress-free and enjoyable!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the lettuce and tomatoes separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Freezer: This pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you freeze it, transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change after thawing; best to consume fresh!

Reheating: If serving leftovers, simply let the salad sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before enjoying. If the dressing seems thick, mix in a little milk or water to loosen it up.

Assembly Tip: If you plan to make it ahead, mix all ingredients except the lettuce and tomatoes and store in the fridge. Toss these in just before serving for the best outcomes!

What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad?

Transform your BLT Pasta Salad into a full meal with these delightful pairings that enhance flavor and texture.

Garlic Bread: This warm, crispy side adds a lovely crunch and is perfect for scooping up salad leftovers. Its buttery flavor complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken skewers enhance this dish by adding more protein and an irresistible smoky flavor. Serve them on the side for a satisfying meal!
Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar has a crisp texture and tangy dressing that pairs well, offering a lovely contrast to the creamy BLT Pasta Salad.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings vibrant sweetness and brightness to the table, balancing out the richness of the pasta salad.
Corn on the Cob: This seasonal favorite brings a sweet crunch that complements the salty bacon in the pasta salad. Slathered in butter, it’s the ultimate summer side!
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of chilled lemonade or a refreshing iced tea can be the perfect drink to cut through the richness and keep you cool on a warm day.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, serve these warm cookies alongside your meal. Their gooey chocolate pairs well with the freshness of the salad!
Caprese Skewers: These colorful skewers of mozzarella and cherry tomatoes offer a crisp and cheesy companion, enhancing the salad’s vibrant flavors without overwhelming it.

Let the flavors of these pairings dance together as you create a memorable dining experience!

BLT Pasta Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this BLT Pasta Salad your own by trying these fun twists or substitutions!

Turkey Bacon: Swap traditional bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option that’s still packed with flavor. It retains the same crunch but with fewer calories.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon altogether and add crispy chickpeas instead for a delightful crunch without the meat. You’ll still enjoy that satisfying texture!
Dressing Change: Experiment with a Caesar or balsamic vinaigrette dressing to change things up! Each provides a unique flavor that will brighten your pasta salad beautifully.
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate crumbled feta or sharp cheddar to enhance the creaminess and richness. It adds a delicious twist that cheese lovers will adore.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some fresh corn, diced bell peppers, or sliced cucumbers to elevate the color and nutrition of your salad. More veggies mean more crunch and satisfaction!
Heat It Up: Drizzle in some hot sauce or mix in jalapeños for those who love a bit of spice. This fiery addition creates an exciting contrast to the creamy ranch.
Avocado Upgrade: Adding diced avocado not only increases creaminess but also brings healthy fats! It’s the perfect complement to the freshness of the salad.

For a delightful pairing, consider serving this salad alongside a refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad or a cheesy Pizza Pasta Bake for a well-rounded meal!

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best tomatoes for my BLT Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or softness, as they’ll be overripe. If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, any small, sweet variety will do just fine!

How should I store leftover BLT Pasta Salad?
To keep it fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the lettuce and tomatoes separate until serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze leftover BLT Pasta Salad?
Very! You can freeze it, but it’s best to do so without the lettuce and tomatoes. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Just keep in mind the texture may change, so it’s ideal to enjoy it fresh.

What if my bacon isn’t crispy when I fry it?
No worries! If your bacon ends up chewy, just pop it back into the skillet over low heat and cook it a few more minutes until it crisps up. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, and remember that the key is patience—low heat is your friend!

Are there any dietary considerations I should know for the BLT Pasta Salad?
Certainly! If you’re making this for guests, check for allergies—particularly to dairy in the Ranch dressing, or if someone prefers a non-pork option, turkey bacon is a perfect substitute. Also, if serving to pets, be cautious with ingredients like onions and bacon, as they aren’t safe for them.

What’s the best time to prepare BLT Pasta Salad if I’m serving it later?
I often make it ahead of time! You can prepare it up to 3 hours in advance. Just combine all ingredients except for the lettuce and tomatoes, and store it in the fridge. Toss in the greens right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!