Introduction

This creamy pasta salad is a perfect side dish for gatherings or a quick meal on its own. With tender pasta, crunchy bacon, sweet peas, and a tangy dressing, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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 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

Step 1: Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse them under cold water to cool.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set these aside.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, cooked bacon, and parmesan. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to let the flavors meld, or serve immediately if preferred.

Tips & Variations

For extra freshness, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Swap the bacon for cooked chicken or turkey to change up the protein.
Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
If you like a tangier flavor, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar slightly.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled and can be reheated briefly if you prefer it warm, though it’s traditionally served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, making it a few hours ahead helps the flavors develop. Just be sure to cover and refrigerate it properly.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini are ideal as they hold the dressing well and mix easily with the other ingredients.

Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 119 reviews

A creamy and flavorful pasta salad that combines tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a tangy homemade dressing, perfect for gatherings or as a satisfying side dish.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

12 oz small pasta noodles
2 cups frozen peas (thawed)

Meat and Cheese

12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Dressing

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: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
Prepare ingredients: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon into pieces, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set everything aside.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated parmesan. Pour the dressing over the top and stir thoroughly to evenly coat all the ingredients.
Chill and serve: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately if preferred.

Notes

For best flavor, chill the pasta salad before serving to let the dressing soak in.
You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and sugar, depending on preferences.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, easy side dish, summer salad, picnic recipe