BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

Serves: 6–8 | Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total: 30 minutes

The BLT — bacon, lettuce, and tomato — is an iconic sandwich. Now imagine those flavors in a creamy, refreshing, and satisfying pasta salad. That’s exactly what this BLT Macaroni Salad delivers. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, BBQs, or even as a make-ahead lunch.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 cups dry elbow macaroni (or any short pasta like rotini or shells)

• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or diced Roma tomatoes)

• 1½ cups chopped romaine lettuce (or iceberg for extra crunch)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

• ½ small red onion, finely diced (optional for a bit of bite)

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the tang)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.

• Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente — usually about 7–9 minutes.

• Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also cools it down for the salad.

Tip: Rinsing the pasta is important in cold salads to prevent it from clumping together.

2. Cook the Bacon

• While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat.

• Lay the bacon slices in the pan and cook until crispy, about 4–5 minutes per side.

• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

• Once cool, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

Tip: For extra flavor, save a teaspoon of bacon drippings to mix into the dressing.

3. Prepare the Vegetables

• Slice cherry tomatoes in half (or dice larger tomatoes).

• Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

• Dice the onion if using.

Tip: If making ahead, keep the lettuce and tomatoes separate until just before serving so they stay fresh.

4. Make the Dressing

• In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

• Taste and adjust seasonings. If you like a tangier dressing, add a splash more vinegar. If you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more sugar.

5. Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, cheddar cheese (if using), onion, and about half the bacon.

• Pour dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

• Gently fold in the lettuce last — this keeps it from wilting too quickly.

• Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for garnish.

6. Chill Before Serving

• Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.

• Serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best BLT Macaroni Salad

1. Keep lettuce crisp: Add it right before serving if you plan to store the salad for a few hours or overnight.

2. Balance flavors: Bacon is salty, so taste before adding more salt to the dressing.

3. Prevent soggy pasta: Drain pasta very well before mixing with dressing.

4. Make it a meal: Add diced grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein.

5. Upgrade the bacon: Try peppered bacon for a spicy kick.

Storage & Make-Ahead Advice

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Make-ahead: Cook pasta, bacon, and prepare dressing up to a day ahead. Store separately and combine right before serving.

• Lettuce tip: Always store lettuce separately if you want to maintain crunch for next-day leftovers.

Variations to Try

1. Avocado BLT Macaroni Salad
   Add diced avocado just before serving for a creamy, buttery flavor. Toss avocado in a little lemon juice first to prevent browning.

2. Ranch BLT Salad
   Replace dressing with ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought) for a zesty twist.

3. Spicy BLT Salad
   Add diced jalapeños to the salad or mix chipotle powder into the dressing for smoky heat.

4. Whole Grain or Gluten-Free
   Swap elbow macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

5. Herb Boost
   Add fresh chopped parsley, dill, or chives for extra freshness.

Perfect Pairings

• BBQ ribs or chicken – Creamy pasta balances smoky barbecue flavors.

• Grilled corn on the cob – Adds a sweet crunch to the plate.

• Fresh fruit salad – A light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the bacon and dressing.

Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

(Based on 8 servings, without cheese)

• Calories: 370

• Protein: 10g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbs: 31g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 480mg

Final Thoughts

BLT Macaroni Salad takes everything you love about the sandwich — crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and creamy dressing — and transforms it into a shareable, crowd-pleasing pasta dish. It’s a perfect choice for summer gatherings, but honestly, it works all year round.

With the right balance of creamy, tangy, salty, and fresh flavors, this dish is a reminder that some recipes don’t need to be complicated to be memorable. Just a handful of good ingredients, prepared with a little care, can turn into something that has everyone going back for seconds.

If you want a pasta salad that gets people talking (and asking for the recipe), this BLT Macaroni Salad should be at the top of your list. It’s colorful, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable — exactly what you want for your next potluck table.