Description
This Cowboy Pasta Salad is a flavor-packed dish featuring al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, savory bacon, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a satisfying weeknight meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne or rotini pasta
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 – 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water; set aside to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Ranch seasoning, BBQ sauce, and hot sauce (if using) until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, black beans, corn, diced red and green bell peppers, and shredded cheddar cheese to the dressing.
- Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld. Stir well before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins