Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy, and satisfying side dish that’s bursting with fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and classic ranch flavor. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect addition to BBQs, potlucks, or an easy weeknight meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow)
ranch dressing (bottled or homemade)
cheddar cheese (cubed or shredded)
cherry tomatoes
cucumber
red onion
bell pepper
black olives (optional)
bacon bits (optional)
salt
black pepper
directions
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Chop all vegetables and cube the cheese.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, vegetables, cheese, and olives or bacon bits if using.
Pour ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Variations
Use Greek yogurt ranch for a lighter version.
Add cooked chicken for a main dish pasta salad.
Toss in green peas, corn, or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
Use spicy ranch or Southwest ranch for a kick of heat.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving if the dressing has settled.
Do not freeze or reheat—best served cold.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Short shapes like rotini or elbow macaroni work best to hold the dressing.
Can I use homemade ranch?
Absolutely—it adds even more flavor.
Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.
Can I add protein?
Yes, diced ham, grilled chicken, or hard-boiled eggs work great.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor.
Do I have to include all the veggies?
No, feel free to mix and match based on your taste.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days, tightly sealed and refrigerated.
Conclusion
Ranch Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing favorite that blends cool, creamy ranch dressing with colorful veggies and tender pasta. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, lunchbox, or backyard barbecue, this easy dish brings big flavor and easy prep to the table.
Print
Ranch Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins (including chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad / Side
- Method: Boiling & Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, colorful ranch pasta salad loaded with veggies, cheese, and pasta—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or side dishes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or bow-tie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tbsp milk or buttermilk (optional, for dressing consistency)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water; drain well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and milk until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, cheese, and olives.
- Toss until everything is evenly coated in dressing.
- Stir in fresh parsley if using.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours) to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Make it lighter by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or ham for extra protein.
- Swap ranch mix for Italian or taco seasoning for a twist.
- You can add veggies like peas, corn, or carrots.
- For a vegan version, use vegan mayo and dairy-free yogurt, and gluten-free pasta if needed.