Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

• Medium Pasta Shells · rotini, penne8 ounces
• Bacon8 slices
• Chicken Cooked & Chopped (or - Leave Out the Chicken and Double the Bacon)2 cups
• Green Onions Sliced · divided2
• Halved Grape Tomatoes1 cup
• Cheddar Cheese Cut Into ¼-inch Cubes½ cup
• Avocado for Garnish · optional½
• Mayonnaise⅓ cup
• Sour Cream⅓ cup
• Milk or More Needed2 tablespoons
• Ranch Powder1½ tablespoons
• Or
• Fresh Chives or 1 Teaspoon Dried2 teaspoons
• Fresh Dill or 1 Teaspoon Dried2 teaspoons
• Fresh Parsley or 1 ½ Teaspoon Dried2 teaspoons
• Onion Powder½ teaspoon
• Garlic Powder¼ teaspoon
• Salt & Black Pepper to Taste

Method

1. 01

   Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl and set aside.

2. 02

   In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel lined plate to cool. If desired, whisk 1 tablespoon bacon grease into the dressing.

3. 03

   Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

4. 04

   Set aside 1 tablespoon of green onions and half of the bacon for garnish.

5. 05

   Toss all ingredients in a large bowl except dressing. Add dressing to taste (there may be leftover dressing)