Who doesn’t love the classic BLT sandwich?
Now imagine all that crispy, creamy, and savory goodness in a refreshing pasta salad.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a flavorful side dish, this BLT Pasta Salad is the perfect solution.
This easy pasta dish combines crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together.
It’s simple to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Follow this step-by-step guide to make the best BLT Pasta Salad at home.
Ingredients for the Best BLT Pasta Salad
Pasta Options
- Rotini – Holds the dressing well with its spiral shape.
- Bowtie (Farfalle) – Adds a fun texture to the salad.
- Penne – A great option for a hearty bite.
Crispy Bacon
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch.
- Cook it until crispy, then drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- For convenience, bake it in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Lettuce Choices
- Romaine lettuce – Stays crisp and fresh.
- Iceberg lettuce – Adds crunch but has a milder flavor.
- Spinach or arugula – Works well for a nutrient boost.
Tomatoes
- Cherry or grape tomatoes – Naturally sweet and juicy.
- Roma tomatoes – Firmer and hold their shape better.
- Heirloom tomatoes – Offer a rich, deep flavor.
Optional Additions
- Cheese – Cheddar, feta, or parmesan for extra richness.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and a healthy fat boost.
- Red onion – Provides a mild, tangy bite.
Creamy Dressing Options
- Classic mayo-based dressing – Smooth and rich.
- Ranch dressing – Adds a tangy and herby flavor.
- Greek yogurt-based dressing – A lighter alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bacon
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes on a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop the Vegetables
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half.
- Shred or chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice any additional ingredients like avocado or onion.
4. Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), ranch seasoning, a splash of vinegar, and black pepper.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and any add-ins.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
Pro Tips for the Best BLT Pasta Salad
- Keep the lettuce crisp – Store it separately and mix in just before serving.
- Make ahead – Prepare all ingredients in advance but combine just before serving.
- Swap ingredients – Try turkey bacon, different cheeses, or whole wheat pasta.
- Enhance flavor – Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Avocado BLT Pasta Salad – Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Chicken BLT Pasta Salad – Toss in grilled or shredded chicken for protein.
- Ranch BLT Pasta Salad – Use ranch dressing instead of mayo for a zesty flavor.
- Keto/Low-Carb BLT Pasta Salad – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing – The texture of lettuce and tomatoes won’t hold up well.
- Refreshing leftovers – Add extra dressing before serving to revive flavors.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients in advance but store the lettuce separately. Toss everything together just before serving.
How can I make this salad healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, turkey bacon, and Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version.
Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! Ranch dressing or a light vinaigrette are great alternatives.
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe (Creamy & Crunchy)
BLT Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that brings together the flavors of crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy romaine lettuce in a creamy dressing. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for BBQs, meal prep, or a quick family meal.It’s customizable, easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, and packed with flavor. Serve it fresh, and enjoy a new twist on the classic BLT!
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 8 ounces pasta rotini, bowtie, or penne
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 avocado diced (optional)
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- ¼ cup sour cream or more mayo for extra creaminess
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
- Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes on a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Let the bacon cool, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Slice the red onion and dice the avocado (if using).
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the chopped romaine lettuce and avocado just before serving to keep them fresh.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- If refrigerating, add extra dressing before serving, as the pasta may absorb some of it.