Creamy High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
A delightful pasta salad loaded with flavors, protein, and the creamy goodness of ranch dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High Protein
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pasta (rotini or penne)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally.
- Prepare the Bacon: While the pasta cooks, fry up the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess grease, then crumble.
- Combine the Chicken and Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and half of the crispy bacon.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In another bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and Greek yogurt until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine Everything: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the veggie and chicken mix. Pour the creamy dressing over it all, toss, and sprinkle in the shredded cheese and remaining bacon.
- Taste Test!: Give it a taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.
Notes
This salad can be made ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain the crispness of the veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta salad, ranch, bacon, high protein, quick meal