Creamy Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This creamy pasta salad is a delightful blend of tender noodles, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a tangy, flavorful dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick side dish, it comes together in just 30 minutes to serve a crowd. The combination of textures and savory notes will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 12 oz small pasta noodles
• 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 12 oz thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking.
2. Step 2: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set each aside.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately if preferred.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing with extra tang.
• Add diced red onion or chopped fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
• Use smoked bacon for a deeper smoky flavor that complements the creamy dressing.
• If you prefer vegetables, try adding chopped bell peppers or celery for crunch.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. It can be served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes better after chilling for an hour or two, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni hold the dressing well and mix easily with the other ingredients.

Creamy Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 132 reviews

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings and meal prep. Featuring tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a flavorful creamy dressing, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It comes together quickly and can be served chilled or immediately, making it versatile for any occasion.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Vegetables

• 12 oz small pasta noodles
• 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)

Meat and Cheese

• 12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.
2. Prepare Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, ensure the peas are thawed, the bacon is cooked until crispy and chopped, and the parmesan cheese is freshly grated. Set these aside for assembly.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated parmesan. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Alternatively, serve the salad immediately if time is short.

Notes

• For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving.
• You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option (adjust diet accordingly).
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
• Use any small pasta shapes such as shells, rotini, or elbow macaroni.

Keywords: creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, easy pasta salad recipe, picnic salad, summer salad, pasta side dish