Print

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad Recipe with Crispy Bacon Bits

creamy broccoli cheddar pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and rich pasta salad combining creamy cheddar dressing, fresh broccoli, and crispy bacon bits. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a satisfying side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • ½ cup full-fat sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In the same boiling water, add about 3 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  3. While pasta is cooking, heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add 6 slices of thick-cut bacon and cook until crispy, turning occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Add the blanched broccoli and crumbled bacon to the pasta in the large bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Fold in 1 ½ cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix gently to distribute the cheese without melting it into a clump.
  7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra bacon bits or cheddar shreds if desired.

Notes

Rinse pasta and broccoli under cold water to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Dry broccoli well to avoid watery dressing. Cook bacon slowly over medium heat for best texture. Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for optimal melting and flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dressing or use dairy-free alternatives as needed. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, potluck salad, picnic salad, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-pasta-salad-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-bits-easy-and-best/