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–+ servings
BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad

BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad: Your Go-To Summer Favorite

This BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad is a vibrant and easy summer side that combines tangy BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing for a flavor explosion.
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Prep Time 22 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 2 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Bowtie Pasta cook until al dente
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Shredded) rotisserie is a convenient option
  • 1 can Canned Corn offers sweetness and crunch
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar Blend) feel free to swap with your favorite cheese
  • 1 can Rotel provides a spicy, zesty kick
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing opt for packet version or homemade
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce gives a smoky sweetness
  • 1 can Diced Green Chiles omit for milder flavor
  • 1 cup Chopped Bacon or Bacon Bits ensure to use real bacon
  • 1/2 cup Minced Onions substitute with green onions for milder flavor
Optional Toppings
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for freshness and visual appeal
  • 1/2 cup Extra Shredded Cheese for cheesy finish
  • 1 medium Sliced Avocado adds rich texture and flavor

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and cool slightly before transferring to a large mixing bowl.
  2. While the pasta cools, shred the cooked chicken. Open the can of corn, drain it well, and prepare the other ingredients: chop the bacon, dice the onions, and set aside.
  3. With the bowtie pasta cooled, add the shredded chicken, canned corn, and shredded cheese to the mixing bowl. Follow with Rotel, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, diced green chiles, and bacon bits.
  4. Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with ranch and BBQ sauce; combine well without breaking the pasta.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving and garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors, making each bite more delightful. Ensure you cook the pasta al dente to maintain its texture.

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