I love a good bowl of Creamy Pasta Salad. I make it for potlucks, quick dinners, and sunny picnics because it holds up well and tastes like comfort. I also like to peek at other salads, like the 20-minute Green Goddess pasta salad for quick ideas.
Dad James taught me to cook pasta just right, and Mom Eva always added a little extra cheese. Sister Jennifer asks for this at every cookout.
Your Ingredients List
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 TBS olive oil
- 1 TBS apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
My Go-To Equipment
I keep a large pot for pasta, a big mixing bowl, and a small bowl for the dressing. I also use a colander and a wooden spoon. These make the salad easy and fast.
The Simple Steps to Follow
- Cook the pasta in a large pot until al dente.
- Drain pasta and rinse with cold water.
- Thaw the peas and chop the cooked bacon if needed.
- Grate the parmesan cheese.
- Whisk mayo, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Add pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan to a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and stir until coated.
- Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours or serve right away.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
I like to add more fresh veg when I can. Try swapping half the mayo for Greek yogurt or add chopped bell pepper and cucumber. For a warm season change, I sometimes use a handful of fresh herbs. If you want fall flavors, see my note inspired by the Autumn Harvest fall pasta salad for ideas.
Serving Suggestions From My Table
I serve this with grilled chicken or a simple green salad. It also pairs well with crusty bread and fresh fruit. For a creamier touch, top with extra parmesan or a sliced avocado like in an avocado pasta salad riff.
Getting It Just Right
Taste the dressing before you mix. Add salt and sugar a bit at a time. Let the salad rest in the fridge so flavors blend. If it seems dry after chilling, stir in a splash of olive oil.
How to Store Leftovers
Put the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It stays good for 3 to 4 days. Do not freeze, as the texture will change.
Enjoy Every Moment
Serve the salad cold or at room temperature. I love how simple ingredients become a family favorite. Make it your own and enjoy.
A Few Common Questions
How long will Creamy Pasta Salad keep in the fridge?
I store it in a sealed container and use it within 3 to 4 days for best taste and texture.
Can I make Creamy Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes. I make it a few hours or a day ahead. Chilling helps the flavors blend, but add any fresh herbs just before serving.
Can I swap ingredients in Creamy Pasta Salad?
Absolutely. I swap mayo for yogurt, use turkey bacon, or add extra veggies. Taste as you go and adjust the dressing.
Print
Creamy Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A delightful and comforting creamy pasta salad perfect for potlucks, quick dinners, and sunny picnics.
Ingredients
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot until al dente.
- Drain pasta and rinse with cold water.
- Thaw the peas and chop the cooked bacon if needed.
- Grate the parmesan cheese.
- Whisk mayo, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Add pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan to a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and stir until coated.
- Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours or serve right away.
Notes
Taste the dressing before you mix. Add salt and sugar a bit at a time. Let the salad rest in the fridge to blend flavors. Stir in a splash of olive oil if it seems dry after chilling.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta salad, creamy, potluck, quick dinner, picnic