BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad takes the flavors of the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich and transforms them into a refreshing, hearty pasta dish. With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and tender pasta all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or a quick weekday lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad combines the crunch of a BLT with the comfort of pasta and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. It’s easy to prep, loaded with texture and flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can serve it as a side or make it the main course with a few simple additions. Plus, it’s totally customizable and holds up well when chilled.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
• Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• Cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
• Romaine or iceberg lettuce (chopped)
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional add-ins: shredded cheddar cheese, avocado, green onions

directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. While the pasta cooks, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat.
5. Gently fold in the tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped lettuce.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes before serving for best flavor.
7. Just before serving, give it a quick stir and top with additional bacon or lettuce if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 people as a side dish.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30–60 minutes
Total time: 55–75 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Mix in grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier meal.
• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the dressing.
• Cheesy touch: Toss in shredded cheddar, mozzarella pearls, or crumbled feta.
• Low-carb option: Swap the pasta for cooked cauliflower florets or a low-carb pasta alternative.
• Dressing swap: Use ranch dressing instead of the mayo-sour cream mix for a shortcut.

storage/reheating

Store BLT pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the lettuce may wilt slightly over time. For best results, stir in the lettuce just before serving. This dish is best served cold or at room temperature—reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

Can I make BLT pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! Make it a day ahead, but add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.

What type of pasta works best?

Short-cut pasta like rotini, penne, or macaroni holds the dressing well and mixes easily with other ingredients.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, pre-cooked bacon saves time and works great—just chop or crumble before adding.

Is there a substitute for mayo?

You can use plain Greek yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and sour cream for a lighter version.

Can I add avocado?

Absolutely. Diced avocado adds creaminess and richness to the salad.

How do I keep the lettuce from getting soggy?

Stir it in just before serving, and avoid storing the salad with lettuce if making it ahead of time.

Can I serve this warm?

This dish is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, not warm.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be—just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.

What kind of lettuce is best?

Romaine or iceberg gives the best crunch and holds up well in the salad.

What goes well with BLT pasta salad?

It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, or can stand alone as a light meal.

Conclusion

BLT Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that captures the essence of a beloved sandwich in a creative and convenient form. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or quick weekday meals, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and customized to your taste. One bite, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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