BLT Macaroni Salad

 

🥓🍅 BLT Macaroni Salad — A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you love a good BLT sandwich and you’re a fan of creamy pasta salads, then get ready — because this BLT Macaroni Salad combines the best of both worlds in one irresistibly delicious dish. It’s smoky, creamy, crunchy, and fresh — the perfect side for summer BBQs, picnics, potlucks, or even just an easy weeknight dinner.

With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tender pasta all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, this salad is more than a side — it’s the star of the table.

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🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser:

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or small pasta of your choice)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

• 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended)

For the Dressing:

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

2. Cook the Bacon

While the pasta cools, cook the bacon until crispy. Let it drain on paper towels, then crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Vinegar

• Dijon mustard

• Garlic powder

• Salt and pepper

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble the Salad

In the same bowl (or a large mixing bowl), add the cooled pasta, chopped tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, bacon, and cheese if using. Pour the dressing over everything and toss to coat well.

5. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Make-Ahead: Prep all components ahead and toss together just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

• Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta with chopped cauliflower or spiralized zucchini.

• Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier salad.

• No Mayo? Use plain Greek yogurt or an avocado-based dressing for a healthier twist.

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🧊 Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Note: The lettuce may wilt over time, so add it fresh if storing for later.

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🥗 Perfect Pairings

• BBQ ribs or grilled chicken

• Burgers and hot dogs

• Corn on the cob or watermelon slices

• A tall glass of iced tea or lemonade

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❤️ Final Thoughts

This BLT Macaroni Salad takes everything you love about the classic sandwich — the salty crunch of bacon, the freshness of lettuce and tomato — and transforms it into a cool, creamy, and totally satisfying pasta salad. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving something different for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

It’s simple, customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any table. Give it a try — and don’t be surprised when they ask for seconds (and the recipe)!