Name: BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounce box elbow or cavatappi pasta; 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise; 3/4 cup sour cream; 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 1/2 teaspoons celery salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon dried dill; freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 5 green onions, thinly sliced; 4 Roma tomatoes, diced; 2 cups diced Romaine lettuce, loosely packed; 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly combines the crispy, smoky charm of bacon with the fresh crunch of lettuce and tomatoes, all swirling through tender pasta, then this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what your taste buds need. It’s a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich brought to salad form, boasting a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together in one irresistible bowl. Whether you’re looking for a picnic star, a potluck favorite, or a refreshing summer meal, this pasta salad delivers on texture, flavor, and easy prep, making it a must-have recipe in your culinary collection.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows raw ingredients neatly arranged on a dark wooden surface that will be changed to a white marbled texture. At the top center, there is a fresh, green romaine lettuce with crisp leaves. To the left are containers of mayo and sour cream, both white in color, placed above a white plate filled with several strips of crispy cooked bacon. In the center, there is a large clear bottle of apple cider vinegar next to a bright blue box of Cavatappi pasta. To the right, there are three spice containers in vertical order: onion powder, dill weed, and a black pepper grinder. Below the vinegar and pasta are three seasoning bottles: celery salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. At the bottom right, four red tomatoes are lined up evenly. Finally, at the very bottom of the image, four fresh green onions are laid horizontally with the white bulb ends facing right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, readily available ingredients is key to making this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe come to life. Each element is chosen not just for flavor but for texture and color—you’ll love how the creamy dressing complements the crisp veggies and salty bacon, all balanced by the heartiness of pasta.

16 ounces elbow or Cavatappi pasta: These shapes hold the dressing wonderfully and provide a satisfying bite.

1 ½ cups mayonnaise: Adds rich creaminess to the dressing base.
¾ cup sour cream: Brings tang and smooth texture to brighten the flavor.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances acidity and brings subtle sweetness.

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Offers a sharp, tangy kick that livens up the salad.
1 ½ teaspoons celery salt: Infuses the dressing with a savory, slightly earthy note.
1 ½ teaspoons onion powder: Gives a gentle depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: Adds warmth and complexity.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a subtle smoky undertone to echo the bacon.
¼ teaspoon dried dill: Provides a hint of herbal brightness.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors with gentle heat.

5 green onions, thinly sliced: Delivers crisp freshness and mild pungency.
4 Roma tomatoes, diced: Juicy and vibrant, they inject color and juicy bursts in every bite.
2 cups diced Romaine lettuce, loosely packed: Adds the classic BLT crunch and freshness.

½ pound bacon, cooked and crumbled: The star of the show, bringing irresistible smoky crunch.

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

The foundation of this salad is perfectly cooked pasta. Boil your choice of elbow or Cavatappi pasta in generously salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly to ensure the dressing clings nicely later without becoming watery.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried dill, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. This creamy, tangy dressing is what makes the BLT Pasta Salad Recipe so uniquely delicious.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Dressing

Add the drained pasta straight into your dressing bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is decadently coated with the flavorful mixture. This will help every bite stay moist and savory.

Step 4: Mix in Veggies

Add the thinly sliced green onions and diced Roma tomatoes to the pasta mixture. Stir again to distribute these fresh, flavorful vegetables evenly throughout the salad. Their crispness is essential for texture contrast.

Step 5: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the pasta to soak in the dressing’s flavors fully, making each forkful a delight.

Step 6: Add Lettuce and Bacon

Just before serving, fold in the diced Romaine lettuce and crumbled bacon. This final step keeps the lettuce crisp and the bacon crunchy, ensuring your BLT Pasta Salad Recipe stays fresh and satisfying.

Step 7: Serve and Store

Give the salad a final gentle toss to combine, then serve immediately for the best texture. Any leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for the next day.

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

A white plate holds a creamy pasta salad made of small, curved pasta pieces mixed with bright green leafy lettuce, crispy brown bacon bits, and diced red tomatoes. The pasta is coated in a creamy white sauce with visible small green and yellow vegetable bits. The plate is stacked on top of two similar white plates, all placed on a dark wooden surface. In the background, there is a large wooden bowl filled with more of the same pasta salad, slightly blurred. The surface under everything is a clean white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional crisp bacon bits or finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and aroma that will impress your guests. A light drizzle of extra apple cider vinegar can also brighten up the flavors right before serving.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, or even a light soup. Its creamy and tangy profile balances rich main dishes wonderfully, making it a versatile companion for backyard barbecues or casual lunches.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the BLT Pasta Salad Recipe in individual mason jars for picnics or parties. Layer the salad with extra bacon and lettuce on top for a visually appealing presentation that also keeps the greens fresh until serving time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and bacon. Give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh vegetables which can become watery and lose texture after thawing. It’s best to prepare it fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

Since the BLT Pasta Salad Recipe is served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, if you prefer a warm meal, try serving the pasta and bacon warm separately and adding fresh tomatoes and lettuce on top.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow and Cavatappi are preferred for their shape and texture, you can use other short pasta like rotini or penne. Just make sure it holds the dressing well.

Is there a way to make this salad healthier?

You can swap out mayonnaise and sour cream for Greek yogurt or use light versions of these ingredients. Adding more fresh vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers can also boost nutrition and crunch.

Can I prepare the salad entirely in advance?

You can prepare everything except the lettuce and bacon up to a day ahead. Add those fresh ingredients just before serving to keep them crisp and flavorful.

What if I want a smoky flavor without bacon?

Try adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the dressing, or use smoked cheese cubes for a delicious smoky twist without the bacon.

How long will this pasta salad last in the fridge?

For the best texture and flavor, consume within 2 days. The fresh lettuce and bacon can lose their crunch if stored longer.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it captures the best elements of a beloved sandwich in a fresh, creamy, and utterly delicious pasta salad. It’s perfect whenever you want a dish that feels like a special treat without demanding hours in the kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again for its unbeatable balance of flavors and satisfying textures.

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need