Description
A creamy, cheesy tortellini salad packed with smoky bacon and tangy ranch dressing, perfect for summer picnics and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (about 9 ounces / 255 grams) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: cherry tomatoes halved, cucumber diced, or bell peppers
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes, until tender but still firm to the bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool them off. Set aside to drain completely.
- While the tortellini cooks, fry the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled tortellini, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar, green onions, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Fold in optional veggies if using.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, toss gently and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Do not overcook tortellini; it should be al dente. Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt. Rinse tortellini under cold water after cooking to prevent sticking. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Adjust salt carefully as bacon adds saltiness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini. For dairy-free, use vegan ranch and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (250 gra
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 15
Keywords: tortellini salad, creamy salad, bacon salad, cheddar salad, ranch dressing, summer picnic, potluck recipe