Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Recipe

Macaroni salad is a classic side dish, perfect for picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. But have you ever thought about elevating it with the iconic flavors of a BLT sandwich? This Pioneer Woman Blt Pasta Salad recipe does just that, creating a creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible dish that will be the star of any gathering.

Inspired by the traditional macaroni salad and the beloved BLT, this recipe combines tender macaroni pasta with crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a tangy and creamy dressing. It’s a delightful twist on a familiar favorite, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad is guaranteed to be a hit.

BLT Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is often associated with outdoor dining, and for good reason. It’s portable, feeds a crowd, and pairs well with a variety of main courses. This BLT Pasta Salad, however, takes it to the next level. The addition of bacon, lettuce (in this case, spinach), and tomato transforms a simple side into something truly special. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet tomatoes, and slightly earthy spinach creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing.

What makes this Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad stand out is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy dressing coats the macaroni and vegetables beautifully, while the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and savory depth. The tomatoes provide a burst of freshness and acidity, and the spinach offers a mild, slightly sweet counterpoint. It’s a harmonious blend that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Close up of easy macaroni salad recipe with bacon, tomato, and spinach

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs. But it’s also hearty enough to be a light lunch on its own. And if you’re heading to a potluck or picnic, this Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to bring. It travels well and can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to focus on other things.

The beauty of this BLT Macaroni Salad recipe also lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing salad in no time. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Macaroni pasta salad with bacon bits and fresh vegetables

Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad

Make Ahead: You can prepare the macaroni and dressing a day ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them with the bacon, tomatoes, and spinach a few hours before serving for the best texture.
Customize Your Veggies: While spinach is used here, you can substitute with lettuce or even mixed greens. Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes can replace diced tomatoes.
Bacon Perfection: Crispy bacon is key! Cook your bacon until it’s nice and crisp, then crumble it for the salad. You can even use pre-cooked bacon bits for convenience.
Dressing Adjustment: Adjust the dressing to your liking. If you prefer a tangier salad, add a bit more rice vinegar. For a richer dressing, use full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream.
Storage: This BLT Pasta Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the spinach and tomatoes may soften slightly over time.

Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

Jump to Recipe

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

16 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup seeded and diced tomato
1 cup roughly chopped baby spinach

Instructions:

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, diced tomato, and chopped spinach.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Garnish with extra bacon or fresh spinach, if desired.

Enjoy this delightful Pioneer Woman BLT Pasta Salad at your next picnic, potluck, or family meal! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together the best flavors of a BLT in a refreshing and satisfying pasta salad.