BLT Pasta Salad Recipe: Easy, Creamy & Crowd-Pleasing

Save on Pinterest Share on Facebook

Last summer, I threw together this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe for a neighborhood barbecue, thinking it would be just another side dish to fill the table. I had crispy bacon left over from breakfast, a head of lettuce that needed using, and a sudden inspiration to turn my favorite sandwich into something I could bring to a potluck.

What happened next surprised me. The bowl emptied before the burgers even hit the grill, and I had three neighbors asking for the recipe before I’d finished my first plate.

Since that day, this creamy, crunchy, bacon-loaded pasta salad has become my go-to dish for every summer gathering, family reunion, and weeknight dinner when I need something satisfying but simple. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tender pasta coated in a tangy mayo-based dressing brings all the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich into one incredible bowl.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Total Time	32 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings	8-10 servings
Difficulty Level	Easy

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe – Creamy Salad You’ll Make Again

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

This isn’t just another pasta salad that sits forgotten on the picnic table. This recipe transforms the beloved BLT sandwich into a creamy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

The magic happens in how the ingredients come together. The bacon stays crispy even after mixing, the lettuce adds that essential crunch, and the tomatoes burst with sweetness in every bite. The creamy dressing ties everything together without being too heavy or overpowering.

I love making this because it’s incredibly forgiving. You can prep most of the ingredients ahead, toss it together right before serving, and adjust the seasonings to match your taste. Plus, it feeds a crowd without breaking the bank or requiring hours in the kitchen.

Another favorite: Broccoli Salad Recipe

Here’s why this recipe will become your new favorite:

Crowd-pleaser guaranteed – Even picky eaters who claim they don’t like pasta salad ask for seconds
Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for busy hosts who want to prep in advance
Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have
Versatile for any season – Works for summer picnics, winter potlucks, and everything in between
Quick assembly – From start to finish in under 40 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Stays fresh – Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days without getting soggy
Customizable – Easy to add your favorite ingredients or swap things based on what you have

Ingredients

The beauty of this BLT Pasta Salad lies in its simplicity. You’ll need ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, plus a few fresh items from the produce section. I’ve learned through trial and error that quality matters here, especially with the bacon and tomatoes. Thick-cut bacon provides better texture and flavor, while ripe, in-season tomatoes make all the difference in the final taste.

For the Pasta Salad:

1 pound (450g) rotini pasta or penne
12 ounces (340g) thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
3 cups (150g) romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 medium tomatoes, diced)
1 cup (150g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (75g) red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped (optional but recommended)

For the Creamy Dressing:

1 1/2 cups (360ml) mayonnaise
1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (15ml) Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe come together smoothly. I learned this the hard way when I tried making it without a proper colander and ended up with mushy pasta. These are the essential items you’ll need, and a few that make the process even easier.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making this BLT pasta salad countless times for parties and gatherings, I’ve discovered a few products that genuinely make a difference in the final result. These aren’t just random recommendations, they’re items I personally use and swear by when making this dish.

1. Applewood Smoked Thick-Cut Bacon

The quality of your bacon dramatically affects this salad. I switched to applewood smoked thick-cut bacon about a year ago and never looked back. The smokiness adds an extra layer of flavor, and the thick cut means the bacon stays crispy even after mixing with the dressing. Regular thin bacon just doesn’t hold up the same way.

Get it on Amazon

2. Barilla Rotini Pasta

I’ve tried many pasta brands, and Barilla consistently delivers the best texture for pasta salads. The ridges and spirals grab onto the dressing perfectly, and it maintains that ideal al dente bite even after sitting in the fridge overnight. Plus, it’s widely available and reasonably priced.

Get it on Amazon

3. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner

This might seem like an unnecessary gadget, but trust me on this one. Properly dried lettuce is crucial for preventing a watery salad. This spinner removes excess moisture in seconds, and the one-handed pump mechanism makes it so easy to use. I use mine at least twice a week now for various salads.

Get it on Amazon

4. Duke’s Real Mayonnaise

If you’ve never tried Duke’s, you’re in for a treat. This Southern staple has a richer, tangier flavor than typical mayonnaise brands, and it contains no sugar, which lets the other flavors shine through. Once I started using it in my dressing, the compliments on my pasta salad tripled. It’s that good.

Get it on Amazon

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe – A Tasty Twist on a Classic

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make BLT Pasta Salad

Making this BLT pasta salad is straightforward, but timing matters. I’ve broken down each step with plenty of detail so you can avoid the mistakes I made when I first started. The key is having everything prepped and ready before you start assembling, which keeps the lettuce crisp and the bacon crunchy.

Read Also: Potato Salad Recipe

1. Cook the Pasta

Fill your large pot with water (about 4-5 quarts/4-5 liters) and add 1 tablespoon of salt
Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat
Add the pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking
Cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 10-12 minutes, but start checking at 9 minutes)
Test a piece by biting into it; it should be tender but still have a slight firmness in the center
Drain the pasta in your colander but DO NOT rinse (the starch helps the dressing cling)
Spread the drained pasta on a large baking sheet to cool faster and prevent clumping
Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss gently to prevent sticking
Let it cool to room temperature (about 15 minutes) while you prepare the other ingredients

2. Prepare the Bacon

Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer in your cold skillet (starting with a cold pan helps the bacon cook more evenly)
Turn the heat to medium and cook, turning occasionally with tongs
Cook for 10-15 minutes total, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness
Watch carefully in the last few minutes as bacon can go from perfect to burnt quickly
Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces (about 1/2-inch/1.25cm pieces)
Set aside and resist the temptation to eat half of it (I’m guilty of this every time)

3. Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold running water
Either use your salad spinner to remove excess moisture or pat dry with paper towels (dry lettuce is crucial)
Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces (roughly 1-inch/2.5cm pieces)
Place in a large bowl and set aside in the refrigerator to keep crisp
Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, or dice regular tomatoes into 1/2-inch (1.25cm) cubes
Pat the tomatoes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this prevents a watery salad)
Dice the red onion as finely as possible (small pieces distribute better and taste less harsh)
If using, chop the fresh parsley and set aside
Shred the cheddar cheese if not using pre-shredded (freshly shredded melts better and tastes superior)

4. Make the Creamy Dressing

In your medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream
Whisk together until completely smooth and no lumps remain
Add the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic
Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds to fully incorporate the garlic
Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and paprika
Whisk again until the dressing is smooth and all spices are evenly distributed
Taste and adjust seasoning (I sometimes add an extra pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon)
Cover and refrigerate until ready to use (you can make this up to 2 days ahead)

5. Assemble the Salad

In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, red onion, and cheese
Toss gently with your hands or a large spoon to distribute everything evenly
Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the mixture
Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, fold everything together gently but thoroughly
Make sure every piece of pasta gets coated with dressing (this takes about 2 minutes of gentle tossing)
Check the consistency; add more dressing if it seems dry (you want it creamy but not swimming in dressing)
Add the chopped lettuce last and fold it in gently (adding it last keeps it crisper)
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if using

6. Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving (this allows the flavors to meld beautifully)
The salad actually tastes better after 2-3 hours of chilling, so plan accordingly
Before serving, give it a quick toss and taste again
Add extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if needed
If the salad seems a bit dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise
Serve cold and watch it disappear

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe – Delicious Picnic Food

Tips for The Best BLT Pasta Salad

After making this recipe dozens of times and learning from both successes and flops, I’ve gathered some essential tips that will help you create the perfect BLT pasta salad every time. These aren’t just suggestions, they’re lessons learned from experience.

For a lighter option, try: Healthy Coleslaw Recipe

Here’s what makes the biggest difference:

Don’t overcook the pasta – Al dente is key because the pasta will soften slightly as it sits in the dressing. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and unpleasant in cold salads.
Cool the pasta completely – Adding dressing to warm pasta causes it to absorb too much liquid and makes the salad greasy. Be patient and let it cool fully.
Use thick-cut bacon – Regular thin bacon becomes limp and sad in pasta salad. Thick-cut bacon maintains its texture and provides that satisfying crunch.
Dry your lettuce thoroughly – Excess water on the lettuce dilutes the dressing and makes everything soggy. Take the extra minute to dry it properly.
Add lettuce last – Mixing the lettuce in too early or letting the salad sit too long causes it to wilt. Add it right before serving or within an hour of serving time.
Don’t skimp on the dressing – Nothing’s worse than dry pasta salad. You want every bite to be creamy, so use enough dressing to coat everything well.
Season generously – Cold foods need more seasoning than hot foods. Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice accordingly.
Make it ahead – This salad benefits from some time in the fridge (at least 1 hour), but add the lettuce close to serving time.
Save some dressing – Reserve a quarter of the dressing to add right before serving if the salad seems dry after refrigeration.
Use ripe tomatoes – Flavorless, underripe tomatoes ruin the dish. Wait until tomatoes are in season for the best results, or use high-quality cherry tomatoes.
Chop bacon when cool – Trying to chop hot bacon leads to uneven pieces and potential burns. Let it cool for 5 minutes first.
Room temperature ingredients – Take the cheese and sour cream out of the fridge 15 minutes before making the dressing for smoother mixing.

Serving Suggestions

This BLT pasta salad shines as a standalone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with so many other foods. I’ve served it at countless gatherings, and it complements everything from grilled meats to simple sandwiches.

The creamy, bacon-rich flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile. At summer cookouts, it sits perfectly alongside burgers and hot dogs. During fall gatherings, it balances heavier comfort foods. I’ve even served it as a main dish for lunch with some crusty bread on the side.

Here are my favorite ways to serve it:

With grilled meats – Pairs perfectly with BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches, grilled chicken, or steak
At picnics and potlucks – Travels well and doesn’t require reheating, making it ideal for outdoor events
As a light dinner – Add some grilled shrimp on top for a complete meal
With fried chicken – The cool, creamy salad balances perfectly with crispy, hot fried chicken
Alongside soup – Serve with a warm bowl of tomato soup or chicken noodle for a satisfying combo
With sandwiches – Makes an excellent side for any sandwich, especially club sandwiches or paninis
At barbecues – Complements ribs, brisket, and all your favorite BBQ dishes
For game day – Set it out with chips, dips, and wings for the ultimate spread
At brunch – Surprisingly good as a brunch side with quiche or breakfast casseroles

Variations of BLT Pasta Salad

The basic recipe is fantastic, but I love experimenting with different variations depending on my mood, the season, or what I have available. These tweaks have all been tested and approved by my family and friends.

Another favorite: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Try these delicious variations:

Ranch BLT Pasta Salad – Replace half the mayonnaise with ranch dressing for a tangy twist. Add a packet of ranch seasoning mix to the dressing for extra flavor.
Avocado BLT Pasta Salad – Add 2 diced avocados right before serving for extra creaminess. Squeeze extra lemon juice over to prevent browning.
Chicken BLT Pasta Salad – Stir in 2 cups of diced rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken for a heartier, protein-packed meal. This turns it into a complete dinner.
Italian BLT Pasta Salad – Use Italian dressing instead of the mayo-based dressing, add mozzarella instead of cheddar, and toss in some pepperoncini for zing.
Pesto BLT Pasta Salad – Mix 1/4 cup of basil pesto into the dressing for an herby, garlicky variation that’s absolutely divine.
Spicy BLT Pasta Salad – Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce to the dressing, and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for some heat.
Greek BLT Pasta Salad – Replace cheddar with feta cheese, add cucumbers and kalamata olives, and mix in some Greek yogurt with the mayo.
Turkey Bacon Version – Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon to reduce fat and calories while maintaining that smoky flavor.
Caesar BLT Pasta Salad – Use Caesar dressing instead of mayo-based dressing, add parmesan cheese, and toss in some croutons right before serving.
Garden BLT Pasta Salad – Add diced cucumber, bell peppers, and shredded carrots for extra vegetables and crunch.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage keeps this BLT pasta salad fresh and delicious for several days. I’ve learned the hard way that a few simple steps make all the difference between enjoying leftovers and tossing out a soggy mess.

You might also enjoy: Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe

Follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate promptly – Never leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s hot outside). Bacteria grow rapidly in mayo-based dressings.
Use airtight containers – Store in a sealed container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the salad from absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Keeps for 3 days – The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the lettuce wilts and the pasta gets mushy.
Add lettuce separately – If making ahead, store the lettuce separately and mix it in right before serving to maintain maximum crispness.
Stir before serving – The dressing tends to settle at the bottom, so give it a good stir before scooping. Add a spoonful of mayo if it seems dry.
Don’t freeze – Pasta salad with mayo-based dressing does not freeze well. The dressing separates and the vegetables become watery when thawed.
Portion control – If you’re making it just for yourself, consider storing in individual serving containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Keep bacon separate – For maximum crispiness, store extra bacon separately and sprinkle it on top right before serving each portion.
Check for freshness – Before eating leftovers, check for any off smells or visible mold. When in doubt, throw it out.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 10 servings):

Calories: 385
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 520mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 12g
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Vitamin C: 12% DV
Calcium: 10% DV
Iron: 8% DV

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions. The sodium content is primarily from the bacon and cheese. For a lighter version, use turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheese, and light mayonnaise.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While this BLT pasta salad is certainly indulgent, it also contains several ingredients that offer genuine nutritional benefits. I’m always surprised by how something so delicious can actually include some healthy components.

Another favorite: Hot Chicken Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’re getting:

Romaine Lettuce – Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus folate and fiber. It supports eye health, immune function, and bone strength. The high water content also helps with hydration.
Tomatoes – Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention. They also provide vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. The redder and riper the tomato, the more lycopene it contains.
Bacon – While high in fat and sodium, bacon does provide protein and small amounts of B vitamins, particularly B12, which is essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation. It also contains selenium and phosphorus.
Cheese – Excellent source of calcium for strong bones and teeth, plus protein and vitamin B12. Sharp cheddar also contains vitamin K2, which helps direct calcium to bones rather than arteries.
Garlic – Known for its immune-boosting properties and contains compounds that may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.
Red Onion – Contains quercetin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Red onions have more antioxidants than white or yellow varieties and may support heart health.
Lemon Juice – High in vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production. The acidity also aids digestion and helps your body absorb iron from other foods.
Pasta – Provides energy from complex carbohydrates. Whole wheat pasta would add more fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium.

FAQs About BLT Pasta Salad

1. Can I make BLT pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely, and it actually tastes better when made ahead. Prepare everything except the lettuce up to 24 hours in advance, then add the lettuce 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the lettuce crisp and fresh.

2. How do I keep the bacon crispy in pasta salad?

The key is thoroughly draining and cooling the bacon before adding it to the salad. Cook it until extra crispy, drain on paper towels, and let it cool completely. Adding it right before serving also helps maintain maximum crunch. Some people prefer to reserve half the bacon and sprinkle it on top just before serving.

3. Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something healthier?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt in place of up to half the mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-rich version. You could also try avocado-based mayo or a combination of mayo and sour cream (which this recipe already includes). Just be aware that the flavor and texture will change slightly with these substitutions.

4. What’s the best pasta shape for BLT pasta salad?

Rotini, penne, or bow-tie pasta work best because their shapes have nooks and crannies that hold the dressing well. I prefer rotini because the spirals really grab onto the creamy dressing and bits of bacon. Avoid long pastas like spaghetti or angel hair, as they’re difficult to mix and eat in a salad format.

5. Why does my pasta salad get dry in the fridge?

Pasta continues to absorb liquid as it sits, which is completely normal. Reserve about 1/4 cup of dressing when you first make the salad, then stir it in right before serving. You can also add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or a splash of milk to refresh it. Always store it in an airtight container to prevent additional moisture loss.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad Recipe has earned its place as one of my most-requested dishes, and for good reason. It takes the classic flavors we all love and transforms them into something perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can make it exactly as written, or you can adapt it to suit your tastes and what’s in your fridge. Either way, you’ll end up with a creamy, satisfying salad that disappears fast.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and discover why it’s become such a staple in my kitchen. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out or what variations you tried. Drop a comment below and share your experience!

Recommended: