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Close-up of creamy ranch pasta salad on a light grey plate.

Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad

A classic pasta salad with a creamy ranch dressing, perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings. This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad
  • 1 pound pasta rotini, penne, or shells
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 1 cup chopped vegetables carrots, celery, bell peppers, cucumber
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and milk until smooth.
  3. Add cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and cheddar cheese (if using) to the dressing. Toss to coat.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For a lighter version, use light mayonnaise and sour cream.