Garlicky BLT Macaroni Salad
This Garlicky BLT Macaroni Salad is a creamy, flavor-packed summer side made with tender pasta, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and a bold garlic mayo dressing. It’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, and easy family dinners.
- Prep Time: 20 MINS
- Cook Time: 15 MINUTES
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 SERVINGS 1x
- Category: SIDE DISH | PASTA SALAD
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: AMERICAN | BBQ
Ingredients
For the Salad
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1 pound short pasta (corkscrew, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
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8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
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4 cups grape tomatoes, halved
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4–5 cups chopped lettuce (romaine or leaf lettuce)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
For the Garlic Mayo Dressing
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¾ cup mayonnaise
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¼ cup sour cream
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1 clove garlic, finely minced
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1–2 tablespoons olive oil, as needed
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water. Transfer to a large bowl and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.
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Add the dressing to the cooled pasta and toss until evenly coated.
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Fold in the tomatoes and half of the chives.
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Just before serving, gently stir in the chopped bacon and lettuce.
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Garnish with remaining chives and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
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For best texture, add the lettuce and bacon right before serving.
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If the salad thickens after chilling, stir in a tablespoon or two of mayo or milk to loosen the dressing.
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This salad can be made up to 24 hours ahead (without lettuce).
Find it online: https://www.firsthomelovelife.com/garlicky-blt-macaroni-salad/