This creamy pasta salad is a wonderful mix of tender pasta, fresh peas, and crispy bacon. It’s a great side dish or a light meal on its own!
I love how the crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that I make it for almost every BBQ—everyone always goes back for seconds!
Making this salad is a breeze; just cook the pasta, mix in the peas and bacon, and finish with a creamy dressing. Perfect for warm days or potlucks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: Medium or large pasta shells work best as they hold the dressing and peas nicely. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or swap it for quinoa for a different texture.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is key for adding flavor and crunch. You can substitute turkey bacon or even cooked sausage for a healthier or different flavor profile. Plant-based bacon works too if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These create the creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, consider Greek yogurt. You can also mix plain yogurt with a bit of mayo for a perfect balance of creaminess and tang.
Peas: Frozen peas are convenient and sweet. Fresh peas are great when in season, or you can use chopped green beans instead for a different crunch!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is what brings this pasta salad to life! To make it creamy and smooth, follow these steps:
- Start by whisking together mayonnaise and sour cream until they’re combined well.
- Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for flavor and creaminess. If you only have pre-grated cheese, that’s okay too, but freshly grated melts into the dressing best.
- Mix in lemon juice and Dijon mustard for tanginess, along with garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Always taste as you go! Adjust with more lemon juice or seasoning to get it just right.
Chilling the salad after mixing helps the ingredients blend beautifully—don’t skip this step!
How to Make Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 ounces pasta shells (medium or large)
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 6 slices bacon
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta salad recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes to create this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the pasta is cooking, take a skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat. Let it fry until it’s crispy, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Once done, place the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to drain, and when cool, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is your delicious dressing!
4. Combine Salad Ingredients:
Now, add the cooled pasta, thawed peas, and chopped bacon into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon until all the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before chilling, taste the salad. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. You want it to be just right for your palate!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets all the flavors meld perfectly. When ready to serve, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for a lovely finish.
Enjoy this rich and creamy pasta salad with bursts of sweet peas and savory crispy bacon! It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a quick meal anytime.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells are great for holding the creamy dressing and peas, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini or penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to stir before serving, as the pasta may soak up some of the dressing.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors will get even better as they meld together!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just want to skip the bacon, you can use smoked tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor. Alternatively, you can use a plant-based bacon for a similar crunch.
