If there’s one thing that makes a pasta salad disappear fast, it’s bacon. This recipe puts Hempler’s Bacon front and center, adding smoky, crispy bites to every forkful. Made with simple ingredients and tossed in a creamy ranch dressing, this chicken bacon ranch pasta salad is perfect for June cookouts, potlucks, or easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
8 slices Hempler’s Bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
12 oz pasta (we love bowtie!)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
1 cup cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
1 red onion, finely diced
½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup mayonnaise
Salt + black pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Hempler’s Center Cut Bacon until crispy. Let cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy.
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, cheese, red onion, and most of the bacon (save a little for the top).
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with remaining bacon and optional green onion. Chill before serving for the best flavor.