Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad: Creamy, Ranchy, and Perfect for Picnics
This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad copycat recipe brings that nostalgic, creamy, ranch-seasoned flavor straight to your kitchen. Made with rotini pasta, diced ham, sweet green peas, and a silky mayo-buttermilk dressing, it’s a perfect cold side dish for cookouts, weeknight meals, or potluck tables.
What makes this salad shine is its simplicity. Just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes of hands-on time—plus a little chill time in the fridge—and you’ve got a dish that’s creamy, tangy, and totally addictive.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a pasta salad that doesn’t try too hard. This one hits all the marks—creamy but not heavy, savory from the ham, a little sweet from the peas, and ranch-flavored in the best way.
It’s also the perfect make-ahead side. I love how the flavors deepen after a few hours in the fridge, making it even better for next-day lunches or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1½ tablespoons Ranch dressing seasoning
- 8 oz cubed ham
- 1 cup frozen peas
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Rotini: Its spirals hold dressing perfectly, but penne or bowtie pasta work too.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and thins the mayo. No buttermilk? Mix 5 tbsp milk + 1 tsp vinegar.
- Ranch seasoning: Store-bought packets are great, or use your favorite homemade blend.
- Ham: Cubed deli ham or leftover baked ham both work well.
- Peas: Frozen peas add freshness and sweetness—no need to thaw ahead!
How to Make Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini until just shy of al dente (it will absorb dressing later). Drain and rinse with cold water until pasta is cool. Let dry for 30 minutes. - Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and ranch seasoning until fully combined. - Mix in Peas
Add frozen peas directly into the dressing. They’ll begin to thaw as you prep. - Add Ham & Pasta
Stir in cubed ham and cooled pasta. Mix until evenly coated and creamy. - Chill & Serve
Serve immediately for a quick side, or refrigerate for at least 4 hours for best flavor.
Tips for Perfect Pasta Salad
- Don’t skip the chill time. The flavors meld and intensify.
- Let pasta dry. This helps the dressing cling better.
- Want more crunch? Toss in diced celery or red onion.
- Need it lighter? Use Greek yogurt for half the mayo.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This pasta salad goes with everything. Here are a few pairings that make for a satisfying spread:
- Main Dish Pairings:
- Dorito Casserole – cheesy, beefy, and comforting.
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – perfect for a party platter.
- One Pan Breakfast Bake – a brunch-style combo that wins.
- Drinks & Desserts:
- Blueberry Lemonade – refreshing and sweet-tart.
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins – for a little sweet ending.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Make-Ahead: This salad is better after chilling for a few hours.
- Refreshing leftovers: Add a splash of buttermilk or mayo if the pasta absorbs too much dressing.
More Crowd Favorites to Try
If you love no-fuss recipes that feed a crowd, you’ll also love:
Final Thoughts
This Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad is proof that simplicity wins. It’s fast, affordable, and loved by everyone—from picky eaters to potluck crowds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner side or a summer BBQ staple, this salad delivers creamy comfort in every bite.
💬 Tried it? Drop a comment or tag @chefmaniac to show off your bowl! And don’t forget to follow for more crowd-pleasing recipes, copycat dishes, and comforting classics.
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