Description
This Creamy Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic appetizer! Packed with zesty jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy dressing, this dish is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. It’s creamy, spicy, and bursting with flavor—sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salad:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne work well)
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. - Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Assemble the Salad:
Add the cooked pasta to the dressing and toss to coat evenly. Gently fold in the bacon, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and green onions. - Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and garnish with additional jalapeños or green onions, if desired.
Notes
- For extra spice, use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled ones.
- Add a touch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky kick.
- This salad can be made a day ahead; just give it a good stir before serving.