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–+ servings
Creamy bacon cheddar ranch pasta salad with fresh ingredients in a bowl.

Creamy Smoky Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

A creamy and smoky pasta salad filled with cheddar, crispy turkey strips, and garden vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings and meal prep.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Dressing

  • 8 oz short pasta (rotini or elbow macaroni recommended)
  • 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be a substitute) Use a good-quality mildly flavored ranch for the best balance.
  • 1 cup liquid ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade) Add black pepper to taste and a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for brightness.

Cheese and Proteins

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese (grated, can substitute with pepper jack) Reserve a small sprinkle for garnish.
  • 6 slices smoked turkey strips (halal-certified, cooked until crispy) Cook until crispy, about 3–5 minutes per side.
  • 1 cup grilled chicken (optional for protein) If using, add cooled and diced.

Vegetables

  • ½ cup green onions (chopped, chives can be an alternative) Reserve a small sprinkle for garnish.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) For best flavor, add just before serving.
  • 1 cup bell peppers (diced)

Instructions
 

Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the short pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 7–9 minutes.
  • Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. Shake well to remove excess water.

Crisp the smoked turkey strips

  • Preheat a skillet over medium heat or oven to 400°F. Cook the smoked turkey strips until crispy, about 3–5 minutes on each side.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.

Prepare the dressing

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream and ranch dressing until smooth.
  • If using Greek yogurt, blend gently to avoid thinning.

Build the salad

  • Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
  • Fold in cheddar cheese, green onions, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced bell peppers.

Add proteins

  • If using, add grilled chicken and crispy smoked turkey strips. Toss gently to distribute.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Chill and serve

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes. Ideal to chill for 2–4 hours.
  • Before serving, toss gently and garnish with reserved cheese and green onions.

Notes

Great for meal prep and can be customized with other proteins and vegetables. Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 18gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 750mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword Creamy Salad, Make-Ahead, Pasta Salad, Ranch Dressing, Summer Salad
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