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Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad

Creamy Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad Everyone Will Love

This Creamy Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad combines rich flavors with a spicy kick, making it a potluck favorite for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Can substitute with any short pasta.
For the Meatiness
  • 6 strips Bacon Turkey bacon works for a lighter option.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Monterey Jack can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Pepper Jack Cheese Regular Jack cheese can be a gentler flavor substitute.
For the Freshness
  • 1 cup Cilantro Parsley is a suitable alternative.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Opt for low-fat for a lighter version.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Hellmann's is highly recommended.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Plain Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Can swap with apple cider vinegar.
For the Spice Blend
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
For the Kick
  • 1/3 cup Pickled Jalapeños Fresh jalapeños can be a milder alternative.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Airtight Container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
  2. While the pasta is cooling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, crumble, and set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and red wine vinegar. Whisk until smooth, then fold in the diced pickled jalapeños and spices.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add cooled rotini, crumbled bacon, cheddar, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything well.
  6. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Before serving, top with fresh jalapeño slices and extra cilantro for garnish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese for best flavor. Chill time enhances the flavor profile significantly.

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