Million Dollar Pasta Salad

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Million Dollar Pasta Salad is loaded with bacon, cheese, tomatoes, and bowtie pasta in a creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks and BBQs.

Course Salads

Cuisine American

Keyword pasta salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Chill Time 1

Total Time 1 25

Servings

Calories 384kcal

Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. Let cool.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a large bowl.
Add bacon, cheeses, tomatoes, and onion to the dressing. Stir to combine.
Add the cooled pasta and gently toss until creamy and well-coated. Chill for at least 1 hour. Serve cold.

Serving size: 1 cup.
Cook the pasta just past al dente, so it stays tender after chilling.
Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and drain it well before adding it to the dressing.
One package of ranch seasoning is about 2 tablespoons.
Low-moisture mozzarella works best because fresh mozzarella can add too much liquid.
For a milder onion flavor, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
Rotini, shells, penne, or elbow macaroni can be substituted for the bowtie pasta.
Cheddar or mozzarella can be replaced with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, marble cheese, or pepper Jack.
Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives, parsley, dill, or a combination for extra flavor.
Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving so the flavors have time to blend.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If the salad thickens after chilling, stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or sour cream before serving.
Freezing is not recommended because the dressing may separate and the pasta and tomatoes can lose their texture.