A delightful fusion of the classic club sandwich and pasta salad, featuring tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a satisfying lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and pasta for a filling meal.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Versatile: Customizable with your favorite sandwich ingredients or pasta shapes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and BBQs.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower florets instead of pasta.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas for protein.
- Dressing Alternatives: Use ranch or Caesar dressing for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Crunch: Add diced cucumbers, croutons, or toasted almonds.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This dish is best served cold, but if preferred warm, gently heat the pasta and chicken before assembling (do not heat the lettuce or dressing).
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.
What type of pasta works best?
Rotini and bowtie pasta hold the dressing well, but penne or macaroni also work great.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a convenient and flavorful option.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy option.
How do I keep the lettuce from wilting?
Add the lettuce just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and avocado make great additions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works as a leaner alternative.
What cheese can I use besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack are great substitutes.
Can I freeze this pasta salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze, as the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables may lose their texture.
Conclusion
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a fun and satisfying twist on two classics, combining the best of a hearty sandwich and a refreshing pasta dish. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this easy-to-make recipe is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and make every bite memorable!
Print
Club Sandwich Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious blend of club sandwich flavors and pasta salad, with tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled. Enjoy!
Notes
- Perfect for meal prep! Stays fresh and flavorful, making it an easy grab-and-go lunch.
- Customizable & crowd-pleasing! Add avocado, cheese, or your favorite dressing for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Tossed, Boiled, Chilled
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Club Sandwich Pasta Salad