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Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

This crowd-pleasing Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad is perfect for your next barbecue, football party, or potluck! Crispy bacon, tender broccoli florets, and creamy ranch dressing tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta create a flavor explosion. Easy to make ahead and transport, this satisfying salad is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 593.7 kcal
Protein 41g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad 117

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad

  • 1 (16 ounce) package Penne Pasta
  • 1 head Broccoli, chopped
  • 10 slices Bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 (16 ounce) bottle Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing
  • Black Olives, to taste
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped Red Onion (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar Cheese (optional)

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How to Make Bacon Broccoli Ranch Pasta Salad

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool quickly. Set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and crumble. Set aside.
  3. Steam or boil broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, broccoli, ranch dressing, mayonnaise (if using), red onion (if using), and cheddar cheese (if using).
  5. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to your preference.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. This salad tastes even better the next day!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

67 g

Sugar

11g

Fat

51g

Carbs

8g

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Salads Lunch Side Dishes American Summer Recipes Game Day Recipes

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Salads Pasta Pasta Rice And Grains Penne