How to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta Salad

Pasta salad dates back to the Roman Empire, where early versions were tossed with oil and vinegar instead of mayo. Fast forward a couple of thousand years, and we’ve upgraded the flavor big time—enter the Creamy Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe of your dreams. This dish is everything you want in a side (or main, no judgment): smoky bacon, tender pasta, crisp veggies, and a tangy, creamy dressing that ties it all together. 

This recipe doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or tricky techniques. We’ll walk you through how to build a flavor-packed bowl of bacon pasta salad that’s balanced, bold, and made easy using tools from Zulay Kitchen.

How to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta Salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• • 250g dried fettuccine pasta
  • 1/2 cup whole egg mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 200g rindless bacon, chopped
  • 1 red capsicum, deseeded and chopped
  • 1 can (420g) corn kernels, drained
  • 2 green spring onions, trimmed and sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • A pinch of black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of oil to the water. Cook the fettuccine pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Use a skimmer spoon to easily lift and drain the cooked pasta. Rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and freshly squeezed lemon juice using the Zulay lemon squeezer. Add a pinch of pepper and whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Crisp the Bacon

Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until golden and crisp. Remove the bacon from the pan and let it rest on a paper towel or in a bacon grease container to strain excess oil.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the creamy lemon dressing using Zulay Kitchen tongs. Add the bacon, chopped capsicum, drained corn, and sliced spring onions. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra spring onions and serve chilled. 

Zulay Says: Chill for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors mingle and mellow.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Not a fan of fettuccine? Swap it for penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta—anything that holds the creamy dressing well.
• Crumble in some feta or shredded cheddar for a tangy kick.
• Toss in baby spinach, arugula, or chopped kale for extra nutrients.
• Make It Lighter. Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a healthier twist.
• Add Heat. A sprinkle of red chili flakes or chopped jalapeño can take this salad to the next level.

Make Your Own Bacon Pasta Salad

This bacon pasta salad is that rare kind of recipe that straddles the line between indulgent and wholesome. It’s rich enough to feel satisfying, light enough not to weigh you down, and versatile enough to show up at brunch, lunch, dinner, or a backyard BBQ and steal the show.

No over-complicated steps. No weird ingredients. Just a creamy, zesty, bacon-loaded bowl of comfort that’ll make you feel like you’ve nailed life—at least for this meal. And honestly, isn’t that what we’re all striving for?

Now, go forth and toss yourself a bowl of happiness.

Other Kitchen Tools You'll Need

If you’re going to make this pasta salad (and you should), these tools will make your job a breeze:

• • Teak Wood Utensil Set: For quick draining without pouring everything into a colander.
  • Mixing Bowl Set: Keep your wet and dry ingredients separate and organized.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise portions every time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Pasta Salad

Can I make bacon pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld and develop. If you’re prepping ahead, just keep it chilled in an airtight container. 

Can I make this bacon pasta salad gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully, as gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked. 

How long does bacon pasta salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. 

What type of bacon should I use?

We recommend using rindless streaky bacon for the best crispiness and flavor. However, you can also use turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon substitutes if you're looking to reduce fat or make it more diet-friendly. 

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Technically, yes—but you’ll notice the difference. Fresh lemon juice has a brighter, more natural acidity that really lifts the entire dish.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Totally. It’s a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the pasta and dressing separately and combine just before serving, or toss everything together and portion it into meal-prep containers.

Can I serve this warm instead of cold?

Yes, and it's delicious! While traditionally served cold, bacon pasta salad can be served warm right after mixing. The warmth intensifies the creamy dressing and makes the bacon even more indulgent.