Some recipes have the power to turn skeptics into fans, and this Classic Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas is one of them. I’ll never forget bringing this dish to a summer potluck. As I set the bowl on the table, the vibrant colors of the salad caught everyone’s eye, but it was my friend’s toddler who stole the show. At first, he was hesitant—green peas tend to have that effect on picky eaters—but after a bite, he lit up and exclaimed, “This is the best mac and cheese ever!” It became the moment everyone remembered, and this pasta salad has been a staple at every gathering since.

This creamy pasta salad is a perfect blend of tender pasta, crispy turkey bacon, sweet peas, and a tangy dressing that brings everything together. It’s the ultimate side dish for picnics, barbecues, or any occasion where comfort food is a must.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pasta Salad

This recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes:

Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make it a breeze to prepare.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory flavors.
Versatile: Great as a side dish or a light main course, and it’s easy to customize.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or preparing in advance for gatherings.
Packed with Flavor: The tangy dressing, crispy bacon, and sweet peas create a harmonious blend of flavors.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: Serves 6-8

Ingredients You’ll Need for this Creamy Pasta Salad

This creamy pasta salad comes together with just a few simple ingredients:

Salad

Medium Pasta Shells: 12 ounces, cooked to al dente perfection.
Turkey Bacon: 8 slices, cooked crispy and crumbled.
Frozen Peas: 1 cup, thawed for sweetness and a pop of color.
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated for a nutty, savory flavor.

Creamy Dressing

Mayonnaise: 1 cup, for a rich and creamy base.
Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons, to add tanginess.
Granulated Sugar: 1 tablespoon, for a hint of sweetness.
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavor.
Salt: ½ teaspoon, to bring everything together.
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, for a subtle kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain completely to avoid watering down the dressing.

Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta, crumbled turkey bacon, thawed peas, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the pasta mixture.
Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to develop its signature taste.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad

Choose the Right Pasta: Medium-sized pasta like shells, rotini, or farfalle work best because their ridges hold onto the dressing beautifully.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it maintains its texture even after chilling.
Make It Creamy: If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or milk before serving.
Cook Bacon Ahead: Save time by cooking the bacon ahead of time and storing it in the fridge until ready to use.
Adjust for Personal Taste: Feel free to add more vinegar for tanginess, more sugar for sweetness, or more garlic powder for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

This creamy pasta salad is highly customizable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add More Veggies: Diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or chopped cucumbers add freshness and crunch.
Switch the Cheese: Try shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Go Vegetarian: Omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains and sides. Here are a few ideas:

Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a hearty meal.
Barbecue Favorites: Pair with burgers, hot dogs, or ribs for a classic summer spread.
Lighter Options: Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Potluck Perfect: This salad travels well and is always a hit at picnics, potlucks, and parties.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Reserve a small portion of the dressing to mix in just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 12g

Conclusion: The Perfect Potluck Side Dish

This Classic Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas is more than just a recipe—it’s a conversation starter, a crowd-pleaser, and a nostalgic reminder of the simple joys of comfort food. Its creamy dressing, savory bacon, and sweet peas create a harmonious blend of flavors that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for an easy side dish for dinner, this pasta salad delivers. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to disappear from the table in no time.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Did you add any fun twists, like extra veggies or a different cheese? Share your photos and feedback by tagging me on social media—I can’t wait to see your creations.

Happy cooking, and enjoy this creamy, delicious pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion!

Classic Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas: A Potluck Star

Author: Samia
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 6–8

Print Recipe

Description

This Classic Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas is a delightful side dish that combines tender pasta, crispy turkey bacon, sweet peas, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any occasion where a flavorful and easy-to-make dish is needed.

Ingredients

For the Salad

Medium Pasta Shells: 12 ounces
Turkey Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and crumbled
Frozen Peas: 1 cup, thawed
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise: 1 cup
Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
Granulated Sugar: 1 tablespoon
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let drain completely.
Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, bacon, peas, and Parmesan. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use rotini or farfalle pasta as an alternative to shells.
Add extras like cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, or shredded cheddar cheese for variety.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American