All The Flavors Of Your Favorite BLT Sandwich Packed Into A Hearty, Creamy Pasta Salad—Perfect For Potlucks, Cookouts, Or An Easy Make-Ahead Lunch!
This Loaded BLT Pasta Salad is a warm-weather favorite in our house. I made it on a whim one afternoon when I had leftover crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, and some romaine that needed using up—and wow, it disappeared fast.
The combination of smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a creamy ranch-style dressing hits every comfort note. It’s just the kind of dish you can make ahead and pull out when you’re too busy to cook but still want something fresh and satisfying. My family loves it with grilled chicken or served alongside burgers at a backyard BBQ. It’s easy, it’s flavorful, and it tastes just like summer.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! This salad tastes great after it’s been chilled for a few hours. Just stir in the lettuce right before serving so it stays crisp.
Q: What kind of pasta works best?
A: I like rotini or bowtie pasta because they hold onto the dressing well, but any short pasta shape will do.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives?
A: Definitely! Turkey bacon, tempeh bacon, or your favorite meatless option will work. Just make sure it’s crispy for that classic BLT texture.
Q: How do I keep the lettuce from wilting?
A: Wait to add the chopped lettuce until just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Q: What dressing should I use?
A: A creamy ranch-style dressing is classic, but you could also use a mayo-sour cream blend with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for a homemade touch.
What You Need to Make Loaded BLT Pasta Salad
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or bowtie)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups chopped romaine lettuce (add just before serving)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for added creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Loaded BLT Pasta Salad
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. Prep the ingredients:
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes, chop the lettuce (save for later), and dice the onion if using.
3. Mix the dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and mayonnaise. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, tomatoes, onion, and shredded cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly.
5. Chill and serve:
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Just before serving, fold in the chopped romaine and garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs to make this a full meal.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Use leftovers: This salad keeps well for 2–3 days in the fridge (minus the lettuce).
- Try a twist: Use avocado, pickles, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “So easy and so rich! Served it with grilled chicken and my family went nuts. A new favorite.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Carrie T. – “Perfect summer salad. The bacon adds so much flavor, and the creamy dressing is spot-on. I’ll be making this for every BBQ!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jenna R. – “This was a hit at our potluck. Everyone asked for the recipe! I used bowtie pasta and turkey bacon—still amazing.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lisa M. – “Really good! I added avocado and it was even better. The kids ate it without complaining, which is always a win.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Nicole D. – “Such a smart twist on the classic BLT. I added some grilled chicken and it became our whole dinner!”
Printable Recipe
Loaded BLT Pasta Salad
Loaded BLT Pasta Salad brings together crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and creamy ranch dressing in a hearty pasta dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or bowtie)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups chopped romaine lettuce (add just before serving)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for added creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. Prep the ingredients:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes, chop the lettuce (save for later), and dice the onion if using.
3. Mix the dressing:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and mayonnaise. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, tomatoes, onion, and shredded cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly.
5. Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Just before serving, fold in the chopped romaine and garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Loaded BLT Pasta Salad, please share it with friends and family! Whether you serve it at a picnic, potluck, or weekday lunch, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Sharing your creations online not only spreads the deliciousness, but it also helps support home cooks like me. Tag me on social media—I’d love to see how yours turns out!
