Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BLT Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—with tender pasta and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a perfect dish for potlucks, barbecues, or easy weekday lunches. The smoky bacon, crisp veggies, and smooth dressing create a delicious contrast in texture and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

ingredients

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe (Creamy & Crunchy)

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

pastabaconromaine lettucecherry tomatoeschopped red onionmayonaisesor creamapple cider vinegarmustard (Dijon or yellow)garlic powderblack peppersalt

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to form the dressing.

Add the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl.

Toss everything together gently until well coated in the dressing.

Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.

Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter version.

Swap romaine with baby spinach or arugula for a peppery twist.

Add diced avocado or cucumber for additional texture and freshness.

Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon to suit dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.*Do not freeze, as the lettuce and dressing do not thaw well.*If making ahead, store the lettuce separately and mix it in just before serving to keep it crisp.

FAQs

Can I make BLT Pasta Salad in advance?

Yes, but for best texture, add the lettuce right before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow tie are ideal as they hold the dressing well.

Is it served cold or warm?

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

Can I make it healthier?

Yes, substitute light mayo and Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing.

Do I need to use romaine lettuce?

Romaine gives the best crunch, but iceberg, spinach, or mixed greens can be used.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—corn, cucumber, and avocado make great additions.

How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Add bacon just before serving to maintain its crispiness.

Can I use bottled dressing?

You can, but homemade dressing gives better flavor and freshness.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to adapt the recipe.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, the familiar flavors and creamy texture make it popular with kids.

Conclusion

BLT Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the comforting elements of a BLT sandwich with the heartiness of a creamy pasta salad. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, it’s a refreshing and satisfying option that’s both creamy and crunchy in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite.