Creamy Pasta with Bacon

This hearty creamy pasta salad has been my go-to potluck contribution for years. Packed with crispy bacon, sweet peas, and al dente pasta, it always disappears first at summer gatherings and family dinners alike.

I first made this pasta salad for a neighborhood barbecue five years ago, and it's been requested at every gathering since. Even my pasta picky son asks for seconds when this appears on our dinner table.

Ingredients

• 12 oz small pasta noodles: The smaller shapes like rotini or shells hold the creamy dressing in all their crevices
• 2 cups frozen peas thawed: Sweet bursts of flavor that balance the salty bacon perfectly
• 12 oz thick cut bacon cooked and chopped: Splurge on quality thick cut for better texture and flavor
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Always grate your own for maximum flavor
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base use full fat for best results
• 2 TBS olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the dressing cling to the pasta
• 1 TBS apple cider vinegar: Provides just enough tang to cut through the richness
• 1 tsp granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing all flavors together
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Offers savory depth without overpowering
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle allium flavor without the texture
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground provides the best flavor punch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil pasta in heavily salted water according to package directions until just al dente. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to soften slightly as it absorbs the dressing. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Prep the Mix-ins:

While the pasta cooks, ensure your peas are completely thawed for even distribution. Cook your bacon until deeply crisp, then drain on paper towels before chopping into bite sized pieces. Freshly grate the parmesan to ensure it melts slightly into the warm pasta for maximum flavor integration.

Create the Dressing:

In a bowl large enough to allow vigorous whisking, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until completely smooth with no visible streaks. Taste and adjust seasonings now before adding to pasta.

Combine Everything:

In your largest mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crispy bacon pieces, and freshly grated parmesan. Pour the creamy dressing over everything and gently fold with a large spoon or spatula until every piece is evenly coated. Take your time here to ensure even distribution.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the finished pasta salad tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. This resting time allows flavors to meld together and the pasta to absorb some of the dressing. Stir once before serving to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.

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You Must Know

The secret to this pasta salad is the balance between the creamy dressing and the crispy bacon. I discovered this perfect ratio after many family gatherings where I noticed everyone picking out the bacon pieces first. Now I make sure every bite has that perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Storage Tips

This pasta salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after the first day as everything melds together. If you notice the salad has absorbed much of the dressing and seems dry after storage, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise thinned with a splash of milk to refresh it before serving.

Easy Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts instead. You can also experiment with different cheese options like sharp cheddar or crumbled feta for a different flavor profile. For a more substantial main dish, add diced rotisserie chicken or small cooked shrimp. The base recipe remains the same, making this truly adaptable to what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, especially BBQ chicken or ribs. For a complete summer meal, serve alongside watermelon slices and corn on the cob. It also makes an excellent stand-alone lunch option, especially when packed for picnics or work meals. For a more elegant presentation, serve in a glass bowl and garnish with additional fresh herbs like chopped chives or dill.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare components of this salad in advance to make assembly quicker. Cook and cool the pasta up to two days ahead, storing it with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. The dressing can be prepared up to three days in advance and kept refrigerated. Assemble everything except the bacon within 24 hours of serving, adding the crispy bacon just before serving to maintain its texture.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad actually benefits from being made ahead. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Small pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle (bow ties), shells, or elbow macaroni work perfectly as they catch and hold the creamy dressing well. Choose a shape with ridges or curves for maximum dressing adherence.

→ Can I substitute the bacon for a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon entirely or substitute it with smoked tempeh, crispy fried shallots, or roasted chickpeas for a similar savory crunch.

→ How long does this pasta salad stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this pasta salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The flavors may actually improve after the first day as they continue to meld together.

→ Can I use frozen peas without thawing them first?

While the recipe calls for thawed peas, you can add frozen peas directly to the hot, drained pasta. The residual heat will thaw them perfectly without overcooking, maintaining their bright color and slight crunch.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, hamburgers, fried chicken, or sandwiches. It's perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad and crusty bread.