If you’re looking for a dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, crunchy, and fresh—you’ve got to try this Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe. It’s a vibrant, crowd-pleasing salad where tender pasta meets the pop of sweet peas, smoky bacon, and the sharp bite of freshly grated Parmesan, all wrapped in a luscious, tangy dressing. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for a picnic, or need a stellar side dish for your next gathering, this recipe brings comfort and celebration in every bite. Trust me, once you make it, this salad will become your go-to for those moments when simple ingredients turn into something spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe. Each component plays a special role—from the pasta that acts as the perfect base, to the crispy bacon and sweet peas that add texture and flavor complexity.
- 12 oz small pasta noodles: Choose sturdy shapes like rotini or shells that hold the dressing beautifully.
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed): Adds a pop of sweetness and a gorgeous green touch to your salad.
- 12 oz thick cut beef bacon (cooked and chopped): Brings deep, smoky richness that balances the creaminess perfectly.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty bite that elevates the whole dish.
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy, luscious texture that binds everything together elegantly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a glossy finish and a subtle fruity undertone.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Gives a gentle tang that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to taste): Balances acidity and rounds out flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tsp salt (to taste): Essential for bringing out all the subtle layers of taste.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (to taste): Injects a savory warmth without overpowering the salad.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (to taste): Adds an aromatic depth that perks up each bite.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste): Offers a slight kick to balance the creaminess delicately.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—firm to the bite but tender. After draining, rinse briefly with cold water to cool and stop the cooking process, ensuring your salad won’t be mushy. This step is crucial because the pasta is the base that carries all these amazing flavors and textures.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with thawed peas, chopped beef bacon, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This combination brings together savory, fresh, and umami elements that make the salad irresistible. Toss gently to avoid breaking the pasta but make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a separate bowl. This dressing is the magic touch, striking the perfect balance between tangy and creamy with subtle seasoning that highlights the salad’s star ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well so every bit is coated with that luscious, flavorful sauce. Take your time here—thorough mixing ensures that every bite bursts with balanced flavor and that the peas, bacon, and Parmesan are all perfectly integrated into the creamy texture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry and the dish chill. This resting time enhances the creaminess and allows the bacon’s smokiness and the pea’s sweetness to blend beautifully with the tangy dressing. The result is a cool, refreshing, and satisfying salad that shines on any table.
How to Serve Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra wow factor, sprinkle a little more freshly grated Parmesan or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving. These additions add a burst of color and freshness, making the presentation pop while adding subtle aromatic notes.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or a vibrant garden salad. It’s also a fantastic picnic companion or a hearty side for a barbecue, bringing creamy indulgence and a fresh pop of flavor to balance smoky and meaty mains.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the salad in individual mason jars, layering each jar with pasta salad, then a few whole peas and bacon bits on top. Another fun option is to spoon the salad into hollowed-out cherry tomatoes or mini bell peppers for bite-sized appetizers that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain that creamy freshness and crisp peas. Toss gently before serving to redistribute the dressing as it can settle.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise in the dressing, freezing is not recommended. The texture of the salad will suffer, turning watery and less appetizing once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. If you prefer a warm dish, you might want to try a different recipe better suited for heat. Otherwise, serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular bacon instead of beef bacon?
Absolutely! While beef bacon offers a unique flavor and texture, regular pork bacon works perfectly well and will deliver that smoky, savory punch that balances the creamy pasta and sweet peas.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and sour cream for a lighter version. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor and texture but will still be delicious and creamy.
Can I add other vegetables to this pasta salad?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumbers can add extra crunch and color. Just add them fresh and toss with the dressing right before chilling to keep things crisp.
How far in advance can I make this pasta salad?
You can prepare this salad up to a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors and textures.
What type of pasta works best for this salad?
Small-shaped pastas like rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work best because they trap the dressing and ingredients well, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe, it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes. It’s the perfect mix of creamy and flavorful with just the right crunch and tang to make your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad always steals the show. Give it a try—you deserve a dish this delightful in your recipe rotation!
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Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy pasta salad is a delightful combination of tender small pasta noodles, sweet peas, crispy beef bacon, and tangy parmesan cheese, all tossed in a rich and flavorful homemade mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying side, this salad is easy to prepare and best served chilled.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
Meat and Cheese
- 12 oz thick cut beef bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and let them cool completely to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped cooked beef bacon, and freshly grated parmesan cheese to create the base of the salad.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined for a creamy and tangy dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become nicely chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before mixing to avoid sogginess.
- You can substitute beef bacon with turkey bacon or regular pork bacon if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning including salt, sugar, and pepper according to your taste.
- For added freshness, consider mixing in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
