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This image shows a vibrant loaded pasta salad filled with cooked pasta, baby broccoli florets, diced bacon, and cheddar cheese, all coated in a creamy dressing.]

Loaded Pasta Salad Recipe

This Pasta Salad is packed with all kinds of goodies! It’s a perfect side dish or even a complete meal. Loaded with pasta, crisp veggies, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing, this salad is as satisfying as it is flavorful.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 471 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Cups Cooked Pasta any shape, medium shells recommended
  • 2 Cups Steamed Baby Broccoli Florets
  • 4 Slices Bacon diced
  • ½ Cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese diced into ¼-inch cubes
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Dressing:

  • 1 Cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tsp Ranch Seasoning Mix
  • 1 Tbsp Cider Vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp Sugar
  • 1 Tbsp Water
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • ¼ tsp Pepper

Instructions
 

  • Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch seasoning mix, cider vinegar, sugar, water, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
    This image shows a large bowl with a mixture of mayonnaise, ranch seasoning mix, cider vinegar, sugar, water, garlic powder, and pepper being whisked together until smooth.
  • Prepare the Salad: In the same bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed baby broccoli florets, diced bacon, and cheddar cheese. Mix everything well to ensure it’s evenly coated with the dressing.
    This image shows cooked pasta, steamed baby broccoli florets, diced bacon, and cheddar cheese being added to the bowl with the dressing, ready to be mixed.
  • Chill: Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

  • You can customize this salad by adding extra ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or hard-boiled eggs.
  • The longer this salad chills, the better the flavors will become. It’s great to make ahead for potlucks or picnics!