Dinner

Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon, Peas, and Parmesan Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi February 20, 2026February 20, 2026

Introduction

Creamy pasta salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. Packed with tender pasta, sweet peas, savory bacon, and a tangy, creamy dressing, it offers a harmonious blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with pasta shells mixed with green peas and small pieces of crispy bacon. The pasta shells are creamy and light yellow, coated in a smooth sauce. Bright green peas are scattered throughout, adding a fresh contrast, while bits of browned bacon add texture and color. A silver spoon lifts a portion of the pasta, showing the mix of all ingredients clearly on the spoon, against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz small pasta noodles
2 cups frozen peas, thawed
12 oz thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to taste)
1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop cooking and cool them down.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set these aside.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, then refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld. Alternatively, serve immediately if preferred.

Tips & Variations

For extra freshness, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving.
Swap the bacon for cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
Use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter dressing.
Add diced red onion or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

Storage

Store the creamy pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a quick stir and, if needed, add a little extra mayonnaise or olive oil to refresh the dressing. This salad is best served chilled and does not freeze well.

How to Serve

A close-up view of shell pasta mixed with green peas and small brown bacon bits, coated in a creamy light-colored sauce. The pasta shells are large and curved with ridges, and the green peas are bright and round, scattered evenly throughout. The bacon pieces add a crunchy texture, with a slightly crispy, reddish-brown appearance. A silver spoon holds a portion of the mix above a white bowl filled with the pasta dish. The background shows a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in this salad?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni work best because they hold the dressing well and are easy to eat in salads.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking removes excess starch and cools the noodles, helping to keep them separate. Also, tossing the pasta with a little olive oil before mixing with other ingredients can prevent sticking.