Creamy • Cheesy • Family Favorite • Perfect for Potlucks

This creamy pasta salad combines tender rotini, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a rich ranch dressing for the ultimate comfort food side or main dish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8

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Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 lb (450g) rotini pasta
• Salt, for boiling water

Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Creamy Ranch Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp milk (if needed to thin)

Optional Add-Ins

• Diced tomatoes
• Sweet corn
• Peas
• Jalapeños
• Chopped pickles
• Diced avocado

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Instructions

Step 1

Cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente.

Drain and rinse under cold water.

Allow to cool completely.

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Step 2

Cook the bacon until crispy.

Transfer to paper towels and crumble.

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Step 3

In a small bowl whisk together:

• mayonnaise
• sour cream
• ranch seasoning
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• black pepper

Add a splash of milk if a thinner dressing is desired.

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Step 4

In a large bowl combine:

• cooled pasta
• chicken
• bacon
• cheddar cheese
• red onion
• green onions
• parsley

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Step 5

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.

Toss until everything is evenly coated.

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Step 6

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.

Garnish with extra bacon, cheddar cheese, parsley, or green onions.

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Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the brands and ingredients used.

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Tips

• Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Chill for at least an hour to let the flavors develop.
• Rotisserie chicken works great for a quick version.
• Reserve a little dressing to stir in before serving if making ahead.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. It’s even better after chilling for several hours or overnight.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Rotini, fusilli, bow ties, or penne all work well because they hold the dressing nicely.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. It’s a convenient option that adds great flavor.

Can I make it lighter?

Yes. Use light mayonnaise, light sour cream, reduced-fat cheddar, and turkey bacon.

Can I use homemade ranch dressing?

Yes. Homemade ranch works perfectly and adds fresh flavor.

Can I serve it warm?

It’s traditionally served cold, but it can also be enjoyed slightly warm right after mixing.

What goes well with this pasta salad?

It pairs well with grilled burgers, barbecue chicken, steak, sandwiches, fresh fruit, or a green salad.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes. Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli, peas, corn, or bell peppers are all excellent additions.