Description
This Bacon Dill Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory, making it a must-have for summer gatherings. Crisp bacon, fresh dill, and tender pasta come together in a refreshing dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone meal. Easy to make ahead and even better the next day!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rotini, bowtie, or elbow)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the salad: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing, tossing to coat. Stir in fresh dill, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and cheddar cheese (if using).
- Add bacon last to maintain crispiness, stirring gently.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crunch, add diced celery or bell peppers.
- Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a healthier or vegetarian option.
- Best enjoyed within 24–48 hours but stays fresh up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Add a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No Cook (except for bacon)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg