If you’re looking for an easy summer side dish that doubles as a light meal, this BLT Pasta Salad is the answer. It combines crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, tender pasta, and creamy ranch dressing into one simple recipe that’s always a crowd favorite.
Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or making it for an easy lunch during the week, this pasta salad is packed with flavor and comes together with just a handful of ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for summer gatherings
- Great for meal prep lunches
- Family-friendly
- Easy to customize
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne)
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ¾ cup ranch dressing
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins
- Diced avocado
- Diced chicken
- Shredded parmesan cheese
- Green onions
- Croutons
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Cook bacon until crispy and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the lettuce.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce.
Pour ranch dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta.
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before adding the dressing.
- Add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
- Cook the bacon extra crispy for the best texture.
Variations
Chicken BLT Pasta Salad
Add 2 cups of cooked diced chicken for a heartier meal.
Avocado BLT Pasta Salad
Mix in diced avocado just before serving.
Caesar BLT Pasta Salad
Swap the ranch dressing for Caesar dressing.
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
Add turkey, cheddar cheese, and extra bacon.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If making ahead, store the lettuce separately and stir it in right before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare everything except the lettuce and combine just before serving.
What pasta shape works best?
Rotini, bowtie, penne, or shells all work well.
Can I use bottled ranch?
Absolutely. Use your favorite ranch dressing.
What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad
- Grilled chicken
- Burgers
- Hot dogs
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Fresh fruit
- Corn on the cob
More Easy Summer Recipes
- Street Corn Quesadillas
- Hot Honey Salmon Bites
- Big Mac Burger Bowls
- Greek Chicken Rice Bowls
- Crispy Parmesan Ranch Chicken
- Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken
This BLT Pasta Salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with classic BLT flavor, making it the perfect addition to your summer menu.
BLT Pasta Salad
Description
This BLT Pasta Salad combines all the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich in an easy pasta salad recipe. Loaded with bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and ranch dressing, it's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, lunches, and busy summer nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
-
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
-
Cook bacon until crispy and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
-
Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the lettuce.
-
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce.
-
Pour ranch dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
-
Season with salt and pepper.
-
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
