This BLT Macaroni Salad is everything you love about the classic BLT sandwich—crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce—tossed together with tender pasta in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or easy weeknight meals. The first time I made this, it disappeared in minutes—the combination of smoky bacon and creamy dressing with that pasta texture was simply irresistible. Light, flavorful, and hearty all at once, this salad brings comfort and freshness to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta salad hits all the right notes: creamy, crunchy, smoky, and fresh. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make—just a few simple ingredients come together for a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The bacon adds savory depth, the tomatoes bring brightness, and the lettuce keeps it crisp and light. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead recipe that tastes even better after chilling, as the flavors meld beautifully. Perfect for summer gatherings, lunch prep, or a simple side dish that steals the spotlight.
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BLT Macaroni Salad – Creamy, Tangy, and Packed with Fresh Flavor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
BLT Macaroni Salad is a fresh, creamy, and flavorful twist on the classic pasta salad — featuring crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and tender macaroni all tossed in a tangy ranch-style dressing. It’s the perfect dish for picnics, barbecues, or an easy summer meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing mix (or 1 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooled macaroni, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, crumbled bacon, and green onions (if using) to the bowl.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients in the dressing.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold, topped with extra bacon and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Mix in diced avocado or shredded chicken for added protein.
- To prevent soggy lettuce, stir it in right before serving.
- Perfect for potlucks — make ahead and chill up to 24 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (after boiling pasta)
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Elbow Macaroni: The base of the salad—holds the dressing perfectly and adds that classic pasta salad bite.
Bacon: Crisp, smoky, and salty—essential for that BLT flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the savory elements.
Romaine Lettuce: Adds a cool crunch and freshness to the creamy pasta.
Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the dressing—smooth, creamy, and rich.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and lightens the dressing.
Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Brings brightness and balances the creamy texture.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Add subtle depth and flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste—enhances all the flavors.
Fresh Chives or Green Onions (optional): For a pop of freshness and color.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the pasta cools, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled pasta, chopped tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and shredded lettuce to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions just before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8 people. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes. Chilling time: 30 minutes. Total time: 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly. Avoid freezing, as the lettuce and dressing don’t thaw well.
Variations and Customizations
Avocado BLT Salad: Add diced avocado for creaminess and extra flavor.
Ranch BLT Macaroni Salad: Use ranch dressing instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
Cheesy BLT Salad: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a richer version.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat.
Turkey Bacon Swap: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make it accessible for everyone.
BLT Chicken Pasta Salad: Add grilled chicken for a heartier, protein-packed meal.
Balsamic BLT Salad: Mix balsamic vinegar into the dressing for depth and tang.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or parsley for extra freshness.
Crispy Topping: Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs or croutons right before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a few hours in advance, but add the lettuce right before serving to keep it crisp.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes—rotini, penne, or shells work well too.
Can I use light mayo or Greek yogurt?
Absolutely—Greek yogurt makes it lighter and adds protein.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
Rinse it under cold water and toss with a tiny bit of oil before adding the dressing.
Can I add other veggies?
Yes—cucumbers, corn, or red onions make great additions.
Can I use iceberg lettuce?
Yes, it adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
How long does it last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge; stir before serving.
Can I serve it warm?
It’s best served cold, but room temperature works well too.
What’s the best way to serve it?
As a side for grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue—it’s versatile and crowd-friendly.
Conclusion
This BLT Macaroni Salad takes all the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich and turns them into a creamy, crowd-pleasing pasta salad. With smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a tangy dressing, it’s fresh yet hearty—the perfect dish for any gathering. Easy to make, full of texture, and bursting with flavor, this salad is guaranteed to be the star of your table all year round.
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