Go Back

Greek Yogurt Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad - Creamy, Tangy, and Satisfying

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta: Rotini, fusilli, or bowtie (12 ounces)
  • Greek yogurt: Plain, whole-milk or 2% (1 cup)
  • Ranch seasoning: 1 packet (about 1 ounce) or 3 tablespoons homemade
  • Mayonnaise: 2–3 tablespoons (optional, for extra richness)
  • Lemon juice: 1–2 tablespoons, fresh
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1 teaspoon (optional, for tang)
  • Olive oil: 1–2 teaspoons (for silkier dressing)
  • Bacon: 6–8 slices, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
  • Cucumber: 1 cup, diced (English or Persian preferred)
  • Red onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced
  • Bell pepper: 1 cup, diced (any color)
  • Cheddar or Colby Jack: 3/4 cup, small cubes or shredded
  • Fresh herbs: 2–3 tablespoons chopped dill, chives, or parsley
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil in well-salted water until just al dente. You want a little bite so it doesn’t turn mushy later.
  2. Cool it fast: Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and shake off excess water. Spread on a sheet pan to cool completely.
  3. Crisp the bacon: Cook until deeply golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble when cool.
  4. Prep the veggies: Halve tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop red onion and herbs. Keep pieces bite-size and even.
  5. Mix the dressing: In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, a splash of olive oil, and vinegar if using. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If you like extra creaminess, stir in the mayo.
  6. Combine: In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, veggies, cheese, and most of the bacon. Pour over the dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
  7. Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes so flavors meld. The pasta may soak up dressing, so keep a little extra yogurt and lemon handy to loosen before serving.
  8. Finish and serve: Toss, adjust seasoning, and top with the remaining bacon and fresh herbs. Serve cold.