Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon & Peas – A Comforting Classic with Fresh Bite
Creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas is one of those dishes that feels instantly familiar and endlessly comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that shows up at backyard barbecues, family picnics, and potluck tables—and somehow always disappears first. Creamy, savory, slightly tangy, and dotted with sweet pops of peas and crispy bacon, this pasta salad strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing.
What makes this version truly special is its simplicity. There’s no complicated technique or hard-to-find ingredient here. Instead, it relies on well-loved pantry staples and classic flavors that work together effortlessly. Tender pasta provides the base, bacon brings smoky richness, peas add freshness and color, and the creamy dressing ties everything together with a smooth, velvety finish.
This is the pasta salad you make when you want something reliable but still crave big flavor. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own for lunch yet pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables. Best of all, it gets even better after chilling, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy days and gatherings.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a cozy meal for the week ahead, this creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a household favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, shells, or penne)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 0.75 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta in well-salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking.
- Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crumbled bacon and thawed peas to the bowl with the pasta.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Fold in the chopped parsley for freshness and color.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon & Peas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and cool.
- Combine pasta, bacon, and peas in a large bowl.
- Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Toss dressing with pasta mixture.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Rinse pasta lightly so it cools quickly without becoming waterlogged.
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
- Add dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter coating.
- Let the salad rest in the fridge—it tastes better chilled.
Variations
- Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra richness.
- Stir in diced red onion or scallions for bite.
- Swap peas for steamed broccoli or sweet corn.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy pasta salad alongside grilled chicken, burgers, ribs, or sandwiches. It’s also delicious as a standalone lunch or picnic dish with fresh fruit on the side.
Storage Information
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and add a tablespoon of mayo if it needs refreshing.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is ideal for making a day in advance.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Absolutely, though traditional bacon offers the richest flavor.
Why does my pasta salad seem dry?
Pasta absorbs dressing as it chills—add a small splash of mayo before serving.
History / Fun Facts
Creamy pasta salads became popular in mid-20th-century American cooking as convenient, crowd-friendly dishes. The combination of bacon and peas is a classic pairing, loved for its contrast of smoky and sweet flavors.
