How to Make Bacon Ranch Macaroni Salad - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to summertime barbecues, picnics, and potlucks, having a go-to macaroni salad recipe is a must. And if you're looking to take your macaroni salad game to the next level, then you'll definitely want to try this Bacon Ranch Macaroni Salad. This creamy and flavorful dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines the classic flavors of ranch dressing and crispy bacon with tender macaroni noodles, crunchy veggies, and zesty spices. It's the perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats, sandwi...

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Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ½ small red onion, diced very small
  • ½ small green bell pepper, diced very small
  • 1 (1 ounce) package ranch salad dressing mix
  • 1 (8 ounce) package Cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Additional Time: 4 hrs
  • Total Time: 4 hrs 40 mins
  • Servings: 8

  • Cook bacon in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat until crisp, about 10 minutes; drain on a plate lined with paper towels until cool. Crumble bacon and set aside.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water, stirring occasionally, until cooked through but firm to the bite, 8 minutes; drain.
  • Rinse macaroni with cold water until cool; drain.
  • Mix cooled macaroni, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, red onion, green bell pepper, ranch salad dressing mix, and Cheddar cheese together in a large bowl.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.
  • Nutrition

    583 cal.

    • Total Fat: 35g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
    • Cholesterol: 47mg
    • Sodium: 736mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 48g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 18g
    • Vitamin C: 4mg
    • Calcium: 216mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 164mg