Looking for a refreshing, creamy, and irresistibly savory dish to elevate your summer meals? Meet your new favorite: the Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Recipe. This flavor-packed salad brings together the beloved ingredients of a classic BLT sandwich—crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce—then tosses them with tender pasta and a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to a picnic, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a crowd-pleasing, versatile option that delivers comfort and crunch in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy BLT Pasta Salad
This isn’t your average pasta salad. It’s:
- Bold and Tangy: Thanks to a creamy base with a tangy tomato twist, inspired by the Tipsy Housewife BLT Pasta Salad.
- Perfect for Summer: A refreshing, chilled dish that complements grilled meats, sandwiches, or can even stand alone as a light meal.
- Simple to Make: Easy steps and minimal ingredients make it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable: Swap in whole wheat pasta, Greek yogurt, or turkey bacon to keep it on the lighter side without losing flavor.
Ingredients
Let’s break down what you need for the ultimate Creamy BLT Pasta Salad:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) rotini or elbow pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ½ cups chopped romaine lettuce (or iceberg for extra crunch)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional, but highly recommended for a creamy boost)
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for that Tangy Tomato BLT Pasta Salad twist)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy BLT Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the noodles quickly and stop further cooking. Set aside to dry slightly.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
While the pasta is cooking, fry or bake your bacon until golden and crispy. Drain it on paper towels, then crumble into bite-sized pieces. Pro tip: For less grease, try oven-baking the bacon at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, vinegar, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This creamy base is inspired by the Tipsy Housewife Tangy Tomato BLT Pasta Salad—it’s bright, rich, and flavorful!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, bacon, tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheese. Gently fold in the creamy dressing until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Add Lettuce Last
Add chopped romaine lettuce (and avocado, if using) just before serving. This keeps it crisp and prevents sogginess. Give the salad a final toss and garnish with extra bacon bits or herbs if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
Make it Healthier:
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or part of the mayo.
- Try turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon alternative.
- Use whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
Make it Vegetarian:
Skip the bacon or use a smoky vegetarian substitute. The creamy dressing and veggies still pack plenty of flavor.
Make it Gluten-Free:
Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be careful not to overcook it, as some gluten-free pastas can become mushy.
Spice It Up:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for a subtle kick.
Tips for the Best BLT Pasta Salad
- Cool the Pasta Completely: Warm pasta can wilt lettuce and ruin the texture.
- Toss Just Before Serving: Especially important if you’re prepping ahead of time—add the lettuce and dressing last-minute to keep it fresh.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: It adds better texture and holds up well in the salad.
- Make it Ahead: You can prep all components a day ahead—just keep them separate until ready to serve.
- Serve Chilled: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving for the best taste.
What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad
This Healthy BLT Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. Pair it with:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Turkey or veggie burgers
- Fresh fruit salad
- Corn on the cob
It also makes a great potluck or picnic dish—easy to transport, simple to serve, and always a hit!
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the lettuce begins to wilt, you can refresh the salad with a bit of lemon juice or a spoonful of extra mayo before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes! Romaine and iceberg are great for crunch, but you can also use arugula or baby spinach for a softer texture and peppery taste.
What tomatoes work best?
Cherry or grape tomatoes are best since they’re sweet, firm, and hold up well in pasta salad. Roma tomatoes, diced small, also work.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes—use vegan mayo, plant-based bacon, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free version.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free mayonnaise and skip or substitute the cheese with a plant-based option.
Why This BLT Pasta Salad Stands Out
This salad strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing, savory and tangy. The creamy dressing has just the right amount of zest to cut through the richness of the bacon and mayo, making every bite exciting and satisfying. It draws inspiration from the popular Tipsy Housewife BLT Pasta Salad, with an added twist of tomato paste to echo the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich—only better.
Great for Meal Prep
One of the best things about this salad? It stores beautifully and gets better as it sits—minus the lettuce, which you can keep separately and stir in just before eating. Portion it into lunch containers with extra protein on top (like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs), and you’ve got a week’s worth of healthy, satisfying meals ready to go.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Summer Pasta Salad
Whether you’re a BLT lover or just looking for a vibrant, new way to enjoy pasta salad, this creamy creation won’t disappoint. The Creamy BLT Pasta Salad is packed with flavor, texture, and that perfect summer vibe—ideal for cookouts, family dinners, or as a meal prep superstar.
From the crispy bacon and juicy tomatoes to the creamy, tangy dressing, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and experience why this Bacon Pasta Salad deserves a regular spot in your recipe rotation.
