This Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Is Everything You Love in One Bowl

If you’re looking for a dish that delivers fresh summer vibes and crowd-pleasing comfort, this BLT Pasta Salad is your golden ticket. Inspired by the iconic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich, this salad turns those savory, crispy, and juicy flavors into a creamy, crave-worthy pasta dish. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, or weekday lunches, this salad is always the first bowl to disappear.

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Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something nostalgic and satisfying about a BLT—but turn it into a pasta salad and you’ve got next-level magic. The crispy bacon brings the salty crunch, cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst, and the romaine offers crisp freshness. Combined with tender pasta and a creamy dressing, it becomes a full meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

It reminds me of that tangy punch from this chicken salad I crave—minus the chicken, plus the bacon. A true win.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or green onions for garnish

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Swaps and Notes

• Lettuce: Romaine holds up best, but baby spinach or arugula can work too.
• Dressing: For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use a store-bought ranch dressing.
• Add-ins: Avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or grilled chicken can turn this into a main dish.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite GF pasta and make sure bacon is certified gluten-free.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled.
3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, Dijon, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble: In a large bowl, toss together pasta, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and cheese (if using).
5. Mix & Chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well. Chill for 30–60 minutes before serving.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and serve cold.

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Tips for Success

• Add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
• Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and keep it firm.
• Double the bacon if you want a meatier bite (no judgment!).

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve this salad alongside classic summer mains like grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs. It’s also fantastic with comfort dishes like Dorito Casserole or Cheesy Chicken Sliders.

For drinks, keep it fresh with a tall glass of Blueberry Lemonade.

And if you’re hosting a crowd, round out the table with something hearty like Sheet Pan Quesadillas.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a little extra dressing before serving to refresh it.
• Lettuce Tip: If meal-prepping, keep the lettuce separate and mix it in just before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Make-Ahead: You can prep all components a day ahead—just store separately and combine the day of.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

• A Light Tangy Chicken Salad (No Mayo)
• Dorito Casserole
• Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders
• Sheet Pan Quesadillas
• Blueberry Lemonade

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re bringing it to a backyard BBQ or meal-prepping for the week, this BLT Pasta Salad delivers major flavor with minimal effort. It’s everything you love about the sandwich—with a creamy, carby twist. Make it once, and it just might become your new go-to summer side.

If you whip it up, tag us and let us know how it turned out. Want more like this? Follow along for more comfort-packed creations that bring the flavor every time!