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This bacon ranch tortellini salad comes together fast with tender cheese tortellini, a creamy ranch coating, crispy bacon, and plenty of fresh veggies. It is my no-fuss favorite for potlucks, lunches, and backyard parties. Every time I serve it, the bowl is scraped clean.
I still remember making this on a hot Saturday and watching my friends come back for seconds and thirds. Now I always make a little extra because leftovers taste just as good.
Ingredients
- Cheese tortellini: brings a creamy bite that soaks up the dressing use fresh or frozen and look for plump pasta with no dry edges
- Bacon: provides flavorful crunch look for thick cut slices with a good balance of meat and fat
- Cherry tomatoes: give juicy sweetness go for firm tomatoes with vibrant color
- Cucumbers: add fresh crispness use small seedless types for best texture
- Red onion: supplies a sharp zesty bite pick one with tight skin and bright purple color
- Ranch dressing: coats every thing in comforting creaminess use your favorite thick and tangy brand
- Shredded cheddar: finishes things with a cheesy pop buy a block and shred it yourself for best melt and flavor
- Salt and black pepper: help everything sing use freshly cracked pepper if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cooking the Tortellini:
- Boil salted water in a large pot then stir in the cheese tortellini Cook for five to seven minutes until they are al dente and spring back when pressed with a spoon Drain in a colander and shake gently to remove excess water Spread out on a baking sheet or wide bowl to cool completely before adding to the salad
- Crisping the Bacon:
- While the tortellini cools lay bacon slices in a cold pan Cook over medium heat flipping occasionally until golden and crisp Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain Once cool crumble or chop into bite size pieces
- Mixing the Salad:
- In a large bowl combine cooled tortellini crumbled bacon halved cherry tomatoes diced cucumber and diced red onion Gently toss everything together with clean hands or two spoons to keep tortellini intact
- Dressing and Seasoning:
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste Toss gently until every piece is coated and flavors are blended Cover and refrigerate at least thirty minutes before serving for best results
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My favorite part is how the bacon stays crispy even after mixing The cheddar and ranch team up for that classic comfort you would find at summer cookouts My family always jokes that this is my most requested dish at reunions and I love how it saves me time
Storage Tips
Store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and it will keep well for up to three days For the best texture give it a quick stir before serving again If you need to pack it for a picnic keep it in a cooler
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping ranch for Italian or Caesar dressing if you like a tangy twist Smoked turkey or shredded chicken can stand in for bacon without losing heartiness For extra color toss in bell pepper slices or even a handful of peas
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salad chilled as a main dish or a robust side It is lovely alongside grilled meats or summer sandwiches I also like to top mine with fresh herbs like parsley or basil when serving to brighten the flavors
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Cultural Context
Tortellini salads became popular in the US as picnic and potluck staples thanks to their ability to hold up in the fridge and stay tasty for hours Bacon ranch is a classic Midwest flavor combo that always gets cheers
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different dressing instead of ranch?
You can substitute ranch with Italian dressing, vinaigrette, or even a creamy Caesar for a new twist.
- → Which vegetables work well in this dish?
Bell peppers, olives, avocados, or fresh herbs like parsley and basil make tasty additions for extra color and crunch.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish tastes even better after chilling and is ideal for making ahead for potlucks or meal prep.
- → Should I use fresh or frozen tortellini?
Both options work well. Just cook frozen tortellini as directed on the package before combining with other ingredients.
- → How long does it stay fresh in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; enjoy cold for the best texture and flavor.
- → How can I add more protein?
Swap bacon for grilled chicken or turkey, or add extra cheese for a heartier version.