Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAmidst the hustle of preparing for a gathering, one delightful sound caught my ear: a friend exclaiming, “I can’t believe how creamy that pasta salad is!” They were savoring each bite of my creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas—a dish that’s become a staple at every potluck. This recipe doesn’t just shine in flavor; it’s quick to prepare, making it an easy choice for those warm-weather outings. Plus, it’s highly customizable, letting you mix in whatever you have on hand. From backyard barbecues to family reunions, this creamy delight is the perfect side to complement grilled meats and fresh salads. Are you ready to elevate your potluck game and impress your guests? Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe together! Why is this Pasta Salad a Must-Try? Flavorful Layers: The blend of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and sweet peas creates a sensational flavor profile that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Quick Prep Time: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule. Customizable Delight: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste—mix in veggies like peppers or add protein such as diced chicken for a complete meal. Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive potluck, this pasta salad is guaranteed to impress your guests. You might also enjoy pairing it with a refreshing Tomato Salad for a perfect summer spread! Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge, giving you more time to focus on your gathering. Pasta Salad Ingredients • Here’s everything you need for a flavorful creamy pasta salad! For the Pasta 12 oz small pasta noodles – Use rotini or shells for the best texture and bite. For the Veggies 2 cups frozen peas (thawed) – These add a sweet pop of flavor and vibrant color; you can substitute with corn if preferred. For the Protein 12 oz thick-cut bacon (cooked and chopped) – This brings a savory, smoky crunch; turkey bacon is a great healthier alternative. For the Cheese 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – This adds nuttiness and creaminess; feta cheese can substitute for a tangier taste or omit for a dairy-free option. For the Creamy Dressing 3/4 cup mayonnaise – This is the primary creamy base; Greek yogurt offers a tangy, lower-fat alternative. 2 tbsp olive oil – This enhances the richness; you can substitute with avocado oil for a different twist. 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; white or red wine vinegar can work as substitutes. 1 tsp granulated sugar – Provides a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity; adjust to taste for your perfect balance. 1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust based on dietary preferences. 1/2 tsp garlic powder – This lends a mild garlic flavor; feel free to use fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste. 1/2 tsp onion powder – Adds savory depth; fresh shallots are a tasty alternative. 1/4 tsp black pepper – This introduces warmth and slight heat; adjust to your liking. Now, let’s whip up this unforgettable creamy pasta salad and wow your potluck guests! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas Step 1: Cook Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 oz of small pasta noodles, like rotini or shells, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, approximately 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely. Step 2: Prep Ingredients While the pasta cools, pour 2 cups of frozen peas into a bowl to thaw, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Cook 12 oz of thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then remove and chop into small pieces. Finally, grate 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese to have it ready for mixing. Step 3: Make Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, plus 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy, then set it aside. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Take a large mixing bowl and combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crispy bacon pieces, and grated parmesan cheese. Gently stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed, ensuring all the lovely textures and flavors from the creamy pasta salad come together beautifully. Step 5: Dress Salad Pour the creamy dressing over the combined ingredients in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula, carefully mix everything together until all the pasta, bacon, peas, and cheese are evenly coated in the luscious dressing. This ensures that every bite of your creamy pasta salad delivers that delightful flavor. Step 6: Chill or Serve Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, you can serve it immediately, but remember, chilling enhances the taste and creaminess. Enjoy your fabulous creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pasta Salad Fridge: Store your creamy pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. This helps keep it fresh and delicious. Make-Ahead: This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge, enhancing the flavors. Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta salad for up to 2 months. However, the texture may change upon thawing, so it’s recommended to freeze without the dressing. Reheating: If stored in the fridge, simply give it a light toss before serving. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and serve cold or at room temperature for the best taste. Expert Tips for Creamy Pasta Salad Perfect Pasta Cook: Cook the pasta until al dente to avoid mushiness. Rinsing it with cold water halts the cooking and maintains texture in your pasta salad. Thawing Peas: Instead of microwaving, let peas thaw in a bowl at room temperature. This preserves their vibrant color and sweetness for your creamy pasta salad. Bacon Alternatives: If you’re short on time, opt for pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon. They provide the necessary crunch without the extra prep, keeping your dish convenient. Dressing Adjustments: For a zesty kick, consider adding a dash of lemon juice to the dressing. This balances the creaminess while enhancing flavors for your pasta salad. Chill Time: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours is key. This allows flavors to meld, ensuring every bite of your creamy pasta salad is deliciously satisfying. Variations & Substitutions for Pasta Salad Feel free to get creative with this pasta salad, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your taste buds! Veggie Swap: Substitute peas with fresh corn or diced bell peppers for a delightful crunch and added sweetness. Fresh Additions: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness and vibrant color throughout the salad. Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken or diced ham for a heartier version that stands as a meal on its own. Healthier Choice: Opt for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Dairy-Free: Replace parmesan cheese or omit it altogether for a delicious vegan version of this creamy pasta dish. Greek Twist: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and olives for a Mediterranean flair that elevates the flavor profile. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil to the dressing for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite. Zesty Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat alongside the creaminess. Other delightful pairings can be found with salads like Tomato Salad Refreshing or a vibrant Watermelon Cucumber Salad, creating a symphony of flavors sure to impress your potluck guests! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and bacon up to 24 hours in advance—just be sure to cool the pasta completely before refrigerating to prevent clumping. The dressing can also be prepared ahead of time and stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, mix everything together with the thawed peas and grated cheese, then let it chill for an hour to allow the flavors to meld. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious potluck-ready dish with minimal last-minute effort! What to Serve with Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas Elevate your meal by pairing this creamy side dish with a selection of delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement its rich flavors. Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken adds a savory element, enhancing the creamy salad’s richness while providing a satisfying protein boost. The grill marks and char give a beautiful contrast to the salad’s creamy texture. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta salad. The bold flavors and textures create a delightful balance on your plate. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a summer favorite that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta salad. It’s a fun, interactive side that brings a nostalgic feel to any gathering. Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh, seasonal fruits offers a light, sweet ending to your meal. The bright colors and diverse flavors will elevate your potluck spread while cleansing the palate. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy, aromatic flourish that complements the pasta’s creaminess. It’s hard to resist the warm, buttery goodness that accompanies every bite. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing homemade lemonade or sweet iced tea quenches thirst and adds a delightful, tangy note to balance the rich pasta salad. Brownie Bites: End your meal on a sweet note! Decadent brownie bites are a fantastic dessert that pairs well, offering a rich, chocolatey contrast to the pasta salad’s flavors. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors and a varied texture that enhance both taste and nutrition. Their natural sweetness complements the creaminess perfectly. Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas Recipe FAQs What type of pasta works best for this creamy pasta salad? Absolutely! I recommend using small pasta shapes like rotini or shells. These shapes hold onto the creamy dressing beautifully and provide a delightful bite. Avoid large pasta, as it may overwhelm the other flavors and textures. How long can I store leftovers of the creamy pasta salad? Your creamy pasta salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Just be sure to store it in a cool place to maintain its freshness. It’s best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal flavor and texture! Can I freeze creamy pasta salad, and how? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze your creamy pasta salad for up to 2 months. I recommend separating the dressing from the salad before freezing—mix it in fresh after thawing. To freeze, place the salad in an airtight container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed, and label it with the date. To use, thaw in the fridge overnight and then add your dressing mixture just before serving! What can I substitute if I have dietary restrictions? If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use a gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise in the dressing is also a great option for a tangier, lower-fat salad that everyone can enjoy! How can I keep the salad creamy after refrigerating? Very! To maintain that luscious creaminess after chilling, I often suggest preparing a bit of extra dressing. Just stir it into the salad before serving. This helps refresh the salad’s texture and enhance the flavor, making it even more delicious when you serve it! Creamy Pasta Salad That Will Wow Your Potluck Guests A creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas that’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings, quick to prepare, and highly customizable. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz small pasta noodles Use rotini or shells for the best texture and bite.For the Veggies2 cups frozen peas Thawed; substitute with corn if preferred.For the Protein12 oz thick-cut bacon Cooked and chopped; turkey bacon is a healthier alternative.For the Cheese1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Feta cheese can substitute for a tangier taste or omit for a dairy-free option.For the Creamy Dressing3/4 cup mayonnaise Primary creamy base; Greek yogurt offers a tangy, lower-fat alternative.2 tbsp olive oil Enhances richness; substitute with avocado oil for a different twist.1 tbsp apple cider vinegar Adds necessary acidity; white or red wine vinegar can work as substitutes.1 tsp granulated sugar Provides a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity.1 tsp salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on dietary preferences.1/2 tsp garlic powder Lends mild garlic flavor; fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste.1/2 tsp onion powder Adds savory depth; fresh shallots are a tasty alternative.1/4 tsp black pepper Introduces warmth and slight heat; adjust to liking. Equipment large potColanderskilletMixing bowlWhiskspatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.While pasta cools, thaw peas in a bowl for about 10 minutes. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then chop into pieces. Grate parmesan cheese.In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, bacon pieces, and parmesan cheese. Stir gently until well mixed.Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and carefully mix until everything is evenly coated.Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesLetting the salad chill in the fridge enhances flavors, ensuring a delicious and satisfying creamy pasta salad. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
