Go Back
Creamy ranch pasta salad with rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a glass bowl.

Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 46 -6
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta short shapes like rotini or penne work best
  • Ranch dressing store-bought or homemade, your choice
  • Mayonnaise adds extra creaminess and richness
  • Sour cream balances the mayo and lightens the texture
  • Cherry tomatoes halved for a juicy, fresh bite
  • Cucumber diced for crunch and freshness
  • Red onion finely chopped for a bit of sharpness
  • Cooked chicken or turkey optional, for extra protein
  • Cheddar cheese cubed or shredded for a creamy bite
  • Salt to enhance overall flavor
  • Black pepper adds a mild kick
  • Fresh parsley or dill optional, for a fresh finish

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta Properly: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then let cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Creamy Ranch Base: In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth, then taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  3. Chop and Add the Mix-Ins: Dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, and finely chop onion. Add to the bowl with dressing and gently stir to coat.
  4. Combine Everything Together: Add cooled pasta to the bowl and gently fold until evenly coated. Adjust consistency with more ranch if needed.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Stir before serving, loosening with ranch or milk if necessary.