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Simple Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad

Simple Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad: A Creamy Summer Delight

A refreshing and crowd-pleasing Simple Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad that's perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Barilla works best for a perfect texture.
  • 6 slices Bacon Consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For the Cheesy Creaminess
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Use sharp cheddar for an extra punch.
  • 1 cup Pepper Jack Cheese Freshly shredded ensures better melting.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Hellmann's is preferred for a cohesive blend.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a light alternative if desired.
For the Zing
  • 1 cup Jalapeño (garnish) Pickled jalapeños can be used for less heat.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Swap for basil or parsley if preferred.
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • Serving dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium-high heat until crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Transfer the cooled and drained pasta to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to sit and cool completely.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and red wine vinegar. Blend until smooth. Add in pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt, adjusting to taste.
  5. Fold in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro into the cooled pasta. Mix gently to combine.
  6. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together carefully.
  7. Transfer the mixed pasta salad into a serving dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Garnish with extra jalapeño slices and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 5mg

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider adding more mayo or sour cream when serving leftovers.

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