When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying side dishes, this creamy pasta salad is at the top of my list. Picture this: tender pasta coated in a smooth, tangy dressing, with bursts of sweetness from peas, a crispy crunch from perfectly cooked bacon, and the nutty richness of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It’s not just a salad—it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that feels indulgent while being deceptively simple to prepare.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer barbecue when I needed something easy to throw together that could hold its own alongside grilled chicken and burgers. Since then, it’s become my go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, and even weekday meals when I want something comforting but not too heavy. The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility—you can add your favorite ingredients or keep it classic. Either way, it never disappoints.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. It’s also the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy pasta salad recipe
This creamy pasta salad isn’t just any side dish—it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Here’s why:
- Effortless and Quick: With just a handful of pantry staples and some basic prep, you’ll have this dish ready in no time. Plus, most of the steps are super beginner-friendly!
- Packed with Flavor: The dressing is the star here—creamy, tangy, and just a little sweet, it ties everything together beautifully.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the mild creaminess, while adults can appreciate the savory bacon and Parmesan. It’s a win-win for everyone at the table.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch, a barbecue, or a potluck, this pasta salad fits right in. Serve it as a side or bulk it up with extras like grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Customizable: You can make it your own by adding fresh veggies, swapping the pasta shape, or adjusting the dressing to suit your taste.
The combination of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and tender pasta is simply irresistible. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds—and maybe even thirds.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes (including prep and cooking)
- Servings: 6–8 (as a side dish)
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 320 (depending on added ingredients)
Ingredients of this Creamy pasta salad recipe
For the Salad
- 12 oz small pasta noodles (shells, rotini, or farfalle work best)
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick-cut beef or turkey bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, dreamy pasta salad that’s both indulgent and refreshing. The frozen peas add a hint of natural sweetness, while the bacon provides a smoky crunch that balances everything out.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but not overcooked. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from sticking together. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Prepare the Ingredients
While the pasta cools, get everything else ready. Cook your beef or turkey bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. For convenience, you can use pre-cooked bacon, but fresh is always better for that irresistible crunch. If your peas are frozen, run them under cold water or leave them at room temperature for a few minutes to thaw. Finally, grate your Parmesan cheese—freshly grated cheese makes all the difference in flavor.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This dressing is creamy and tangy with just a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. If you prefer your dressing a little thinner, add a splash of water or extra olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until the salad is evenly coated. Be sure to mix thoroughly so every bite is full of flavor!
Chill and Serve
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious. If you’re in a hurry, you can serve it right away, but trust me—it’s worth the wait.
How to Serve this Creamy pasta salad recipe
This creamy pasta salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, beef skewers, or roasted vegetables.
- Add some protein, like shredded chicken or tuna, to make it a hearty main dish.
- Pair it with a simple green salad and fresh bread for a light and refreshing meal.
- Pack it up for a picnic or barbecue—it travels well and tastes great even at room temperature.
Additional Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pasta: Smaller pasta shapes like shells or rotini are ideal because they hold the dressing well and are easy to mix. Avoid spaghetti or linguine, as they can clump together.
- Thaw the Peas Properly: Thawed peas should be cool but not mushy. If they’re too wet, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad.
- Keep Bacon Crispy: To maintain its crunch, add the bacon just before serving. If you’re making the salad ahead of time, store the bacon separately and mix it in later.
- Adjust the Dressing: If the salad dries out after chilling, stir in a splash of olive oil or an extra spoonful of mayonnaise before serving.
- Make It Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance for maximum convenience.
Creamy pasta salad recipe variations
One of the best things about this pasta salad is how customizable it is. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious meat-free option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a version that everyone can enjoy.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or sweet corn for added color and crunch.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle heat.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a blessing when it comes to this creamy pasta salad. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but the dressing may thicken slightly—just stir in a little olive oil or water before serving to refresh it.
If you want to freeze this salad, it’s best to do so without the dressing. Freeze the cooked pasta and peas separately, then add the dressing and bacon when you’re ready to serve.
Special Equipment
This recipe doesn’t require any fancy tools, but having the following on hand can make the process smoother:
- A large mixing bowl for tossing the salad
- A small whisk for the dressing
- A fine grater for the Parmesan cheese
- A sturdy colander for draining the pasta
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought bacon bits?
Yes, but fresh bacon adds a much better flavor and crunch. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked bacon bits can work in a pinch.
Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?
Absolutely! You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining to stop it from cooking further.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Feta, Asiago, or even shredded mozzarella can work as substitutes.
Can I serve this salad warm?
It’s traditionally served cold, but it tastes great warm too. Just skip the chilling step and serve immediately after mixing.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about a dish that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor, and this creamy pasta salad fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re whipping it up for a summer gathering, meal prepping for the week, or just satisfying a craving for comfort food, this recipe has you covered.
I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you make any fun variations? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me in your photos—I can’t wait to see your creations!
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Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe: Your New Favorite Side Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This creamy pasta salad is a versatile side dish featuring tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and Parmesan, all coated in a tangy, creamy dressing. Quick to make and customizable, it’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a meal prep option.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 12 oz small pasta noodles (shells, rotini, or farfalle)
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick-cut beef or turkey bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
- Combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill for 1–2 hours or serve immediately.
Notes
- Add extra dressing or olive oil before serving if the salad feels dry.
- Keep bacon separate until serving to maintain its crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American