BBQ Ranch BLT Pasta Salad (Easy Creamy BBQ Side)

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This BBQ Ranch BLT Pasta Salad is bold, creamy, and perfect for BBQs. An easy summer pasta salad everyone will love.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Additional Time2

Total Time2 20

Course: Pizza and Pasta, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Author: Jamie Sherman

Cook pasta in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain well.
14 ounces rotini pasta
In a large bowl, combine cooked bacon, pasta, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2 pounds thick-cut bacon, 3 cups romaine lettuce, 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup red onion
In a medium bowl, stir together sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, and BBQ sauce until smooth.
1½ cups sour cream, 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dry ranch seasoning mix, 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
Pour dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle parsley over the top.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

🥡 STORAGE: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Keep lettuce separate if making ahead for the best texture

♨️ REHEATING: Not recommended, serve cold

❄️ FREEZING: Not recommended, ingredients do not freeze well

💡 TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS: Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain texture

Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking

Add lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp

Chill before serving for the best flavor

🍳 ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS: Bake bacon in the oven at 400° for 15-20 minutes for easy cleanup

Use pre-cooked bacon to save time

♻️ LEFTOVERS: Refresh leftovers with a small amount of extra dressing before serving

Serve as a side or add protein to make it a meal

📝 NOTES: Bacon weight is measured before cooking

Al dente pasta is tender but still slightly firm, helping it hold up in the salad