This creamy pasta salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering. It features tender noodles, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a rich, tangy dressing made with mayo, olive oil, and parmesan cheese. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, prepping for a potluck, or looking for a quick side dish to round out your dinner, this bacon pasta salad is fresh, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a classic comfort side with a delicious twist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping a few hours before guests arrive.
- Great for feeding a crowd: Serves up to 12 people!
- Flavor-packed: The bacon, parmesan, and creamy dressing bring irresistible savory flavor.
- Customizable: Easy to add extra mix-ins like veggies or protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Small Pasta Noodles (12 oz): Elbow macaroni, rotini, shells, or bowties work well.
- Frozen Peas (2 cups, thawed): Adds sweetness and bright color. No need to cook—just thaw.
- Thick-Cut Bacon (12 oz, cooked & chopped): Adds crunch and smoky flavor. Use real bacon bits in a pinch.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Adds richness and depth to the dressing. Grate it fresh for best results.
- Mayonnaise (¾ cup): Creamy base for the dressing. Use full-fat or light mayo depending on preference.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps balance the richness of the mayo with a smooth texture.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds tanginess and brightness to the dressing.
- Granulated Sugar (1 tsp): Balances the vinegar and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Salt (1 tsp or to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Garlic Powder (½ tsp): For a mild, savory kick.
- Onion Powder (½ tsp): Adds extra depth of flavor to the dressing.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a bit of heat and rounds out the flavors.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
- Prep your mix-ins: While the pasta cooks, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it. Thaw the peas and grate the parmesan cheese.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine everything: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the creamy dressing over the top.
- Mix & chill: Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours for best flavor, or serve immediately if short on time.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Rinse the pasta: This stops the cooking and prevents it from sticking together.
- Use fresh parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can clump and lacks flavor compared to freshly grated.
- Let it chill: Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the salad even tastier.
- Cook bacon in the oven: For easy cleanup and extra crispy results, bake bacon at 400°F for 15–20 minutes on a lined baking sheet.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free mayo and omit the cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon or use meatless bacon crumbles.
- Low-carb version: Use cooked cauliflower florets instead of pasta.
- Protein boost: Add diced grilled chicken, turkey, or chopped boiled eggs.
- More veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion for color and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs at your next cookout.
- Pack it in lunchboxes with sandwiches or wraps.
- Use as a base and top with extra proteins for a full meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Storage, Freezing, & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Make ahead: Prepare a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Freezing: Not recommended—pasta salads with creamy dressings don’t freeze well due to texture changes.
- Reheating: Best served cold. Let sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving if too cold from the fridge.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this creamy pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better after chilling for an hour or two. You can make it up to a day in advance.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Elbow macaroni, shells, rotini, or bowtie pasta all work well in this salad.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great lower-fat alternative that still adds crisp texture and flavor.
How do I keep the salad from drying out?
Make sure the pasta is well-coated in dressing. You can also stir in an extra spoonful of mayo before serving if it looks dry.
Closing Thoughts + Call to Action
This creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas is easy to love and even easier to make. It’s creamy, savory, and satisfying—perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or adding a flavorful side to your weeknight meals. If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment and star rating below, or share it on Pinterest! Looking for more potluck-perfect dishes? Try our Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon & Cheese or Taco Pasta Salad next!