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Creamy Make-Ahead Loaded Pasta Salad

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A creamy, tangy, and crunchy pasta salad that can be made ahead for easy entertaining. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini or elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (100 grams) celery, finely diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • ½ cup (75 grams) finely chopped dill pickles (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain fully for about 10 minutes.
  3. While the pasta cooks, chop 6 slices of bacon into small pieces. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Let cool.
  4. Dice 1 cup celery, 1 medium red bell pepper, and 4 green onions. If using pickles, chop about ½ cup finely.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the cooled pasta, cooked bacon, chopped veggies, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the dressing bowl. Gently fold everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to meld and pasta to soak up the dressing.
  8. Just before serving, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent mushiness and sticking. Chill the salad for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. Adjust seasoning after combining ingredients. For a thinner consistency after chilling, stir in a splash of milk or more mayo. Avoid overcooking pasta to keep texture firm. Gentle folding preserves pasta and veggie texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, make-ahead salad, party salad, loaded pasta salad, easy pasta salad, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-make-ahead-loaded-pasta-salad-recipe-for-easy-party-prep/