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Creamy Pasta Salad Easy Family Comfort Food Recipe

Creamy Pasta Salad

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing classic — a perfect combination of tender pasta, crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a rich, tangy dressing. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or as a comforting side dish at home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 12 oz Small pasta noodles
  • 2 cups Frozen peas, thawed
  • 12 oz Thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 0.5 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Creamy Dressing
  • 0.75 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Granulated sugar (to taste)
  • 1 tsp Salt (to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic powder (to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp Onion powder (to taste)
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper (to taste)

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. While the pasta cooks, ensure the peas are thawed, the bacon is cooked and crumbled, and the Parmesan is grated. Set aside.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to chill, or serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Notes

This creamy pasta salad can be made up to a day ahead — just stir in a splash of olive oil or extra dressing before serving to freshen it up. For added flavor, toss in diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, or shredded cheddar.