Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky turkey bacon flavor. Perfect for a quick, comforting dinner that everyone will love!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 4 slices turkey bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions fresh garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain well and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey bacon slices and cook until they’re crispy and browned, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet, let cool slightly, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Return the drained penne to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese and ranch sauce over the pasta and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Fold in the crumbled turkey bacon gently. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
Notes
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon for a smokier flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add vegetables like peas, asparagus, or tomatoes to customize the dish seasonally.