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Creamy bacon ranch tortellini salad prepared with cheese tortellini, bacon, red onion, and ranch dressing
Isaac blogger

Bacon Ranch Tortellini Salad

Creamy bacon ranch tortellini salad made with cheese-filled pasta, crisp bacon, fresh vegetables, and ranch dressing. An easy make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, and everyday meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories:

Ingredients
  

  • 20 oz cheese tortellini
  • 8 slices bacon, fully cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  • ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill (optional)

Method
 

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Prepare equipment as needed. Results may vary based on ingredients and tools.
  3. Cook the Tortellini
  4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until tender but still firm enough to hold shape. Drain well and rinse under cold water until fully cooled.
  5. Prepare the Bacon
  6. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and fully cooked. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat, then crumble into small pieces once cooled.
  7. Combine Ingredients
  8. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, bacon, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and red onion. Toss lightly to distribute evenly.
  9. Add Dressing
  10. Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated and the salad appears creamy.
  11. Chill and Serve
  12. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so flavors can develop. Stir gently before serving and garnish with herbs if desired.

Notes

• Cooling the pasta fully prevents the dressing from separating.

• Crisp bacon provides the best texture contrast.

• Stir gently to keep tortellini intact.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and store in an airtight container up to 4 days.

• Serve chilled. Reheating is not recommended for best texture.