BLT pasta salad takes everything people love about the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich and transforms it into a satisfying, make-ahead dish that works for almost any occasion. Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, tender pasta, and fresh lettuce are tossed in a creamy dressing that feels familiar yet fresh. It’s comforting without being heavy and simple without being boring.
This is the kind of recipe that shows up at barbecues, potlucks, picnics, and family dinners—and disappears fast. With the right balance of textures and flavors, BLT pasta salad is reliable, adaptable, and endlessly crave-worthy.
Why BLT Pasta Salad Is Always a Hit
The appeal of this pasta salad comes down to contrast and balance. You get:
Crunchy bacon for savory depth
Fresh tomatoes for brightness and juiciness
Crisp lettuce for freshness
Tender pasta that makes it filling
Creamy dressing that ties everything together
When prepared thoughtfully, the salad doesn’t feel soggy or overly rich. Each ingredient keeps its identity while working together as a whole.
Equipment
Gather these kitchen tools before you start:
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Medium bowl for dressing
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Skillet or oven tray for bacon
Ingredients List
For the Pasta Salad
12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or bowties)
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
For the Dressing
¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes (optional but recommended)
Total Time: About 40–45 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad
Step 1. Cook the Pasta Properly
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, following package instructions. Drain well and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process.
Let the pasta cool completely before assembling the salad. This prevents the dressing from separating and keeps the lettuce crisp.
Step 2. Cook and Prepare the Bacon
Cook the bacon until crisp using your preferred method—skillet, oven, or air fryer. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and let cool before chopping.
Crispy bacon is essential here. Soft bacon will lose texture once mixed into the salad.
Step 3. Make the Creamy Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
The dressing should be creamy with a slight tang—not heavy or overly thick.
Step 4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, red onion (if using), and about two-thirds of the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes if time allows. This helps the flavors meld.
Step 5. Add Lettuce Just Before Serving
Right before serving, fold in the chopped lettuce and remaining dressing. Toss gently and serve immediately.
Adding lettuce at the end keeps it crisp and fresh.
Expert Tips for the Best BLT Pasta Salad
Salt the pasta water generously—it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself
Let all ingredients cool before mixing to avoid wilting lettuce
Use small tomatoes for better texture and even distribution
Reserve some bacon to sprinkle on top for presentation
If the salad thickens in the fridge, loosen it with a splash of milk or lemon juice
Easy Variations to Try
Healthier BLT Pasta Salad
Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and half the mayonnaise. Add extra lettuce for volume.
Avocado BLT Pasta Salad
Fold in diced avocado just before serving for creaminess and healthy fats.
Chicken BLT Pasta Salad
Add chopped grilled or rotisserie chicken to turn it into a full meal.
Ranch-Style BLT Pasta Salad
Swap half the mayonnaise for ranch dressing for a familiar flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
BLT pasta salad works beautifully as both a side dish and a main course. Serve it with:
Grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs
Sandwiches or wraps
Fresh fruit or corn on the cob
Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water
It’s especially popular at summer gatherings where make-ahead dishes are essential.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 380–430
Protein: 10–14g
Fat: 22–26g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Fiber: 2–3g
Sodium: Varies by bacon and dressing
Values will vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Cook pasta and bacon up to 1 day in advance
Store dressing separately if prepping ahead
Add lettuce only right before serving
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
BLT pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it holds well for short-term storage.
For more healthy and satisfying salads, you might also enjoy Fruit Salad, Roasted Sweet Potato Black Bean Salad, or Chicken Couscous Salad.
BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, following package instructions. Drain well and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process.
- Let the pasta cool completely before assembling the salad. This prevents the dressing from separating and keeps the lettuce crisp.
- Cook the bacon until crisp using your preferred method—skillet, oven, or air fryer. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and let cool before chopping.
- Crispy bacon is essential here. Soft bacon will lose texture once mixed into the salad.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- The dressing should be creamy with a slight tang—not heavy or overly thick.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, red onion (if using), and about two-thirds of the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes if time allows. This helps the flavors meld.
- Right before serving, fold in the chopped lettuce and remaining dressing. Toss gently and serve immediately.
- Adding lettuce at the end keeps it crisp and fresh.
Conclusion
BLT pasta salad is a timeless favorite for a reason. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and easy to love. With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and a creamy dressing, it delivers comfort and freshness in every forkful.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make BLT pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, just add the lettuce right before serving.
2. What pasta shape works best?
Short shapes like rotini or penne hold dressing well.
3. Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, but cook it until very crisp for best texture.
4. How do I keep it from drying out?
Reserve some dressing and add it just before serving.
5. Is this good for potlucks?
Absolutely—it’s a proven crowd favorite.