Summer is here, and there’s nothing better than a refreshing dish to beat the heat! Enter BLT Macaroni Salad—a creamy, crave-worthy mashup of the beloved BLT sandwich and the timeless macaroni salad. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta tossed with crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty green onions, all coated in a rich, tangy mayo dressing. It’s the ultimate summer side dish!
Did you know macaroni salad has been a picnic favorite for generations? It’s easy, affordable, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re already a fan of our Classic Macaroni Salad, this BLT-inspired version is a must-try. Whether you’re headed to a backyard BBQ or whipping up a quick weeknight side, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!
What is BLT Macaroni Salad?
BLT Macaroni Salad takes the classic components of a Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato sandwich and gives them a fun pasta twist. But wait—there’s no lettuce? That’s right! We skip the wilting greens in favor of crisp green onions for a longer-lasting crunch and zippy bite.
And while the name may raise a few eyebrows, this combo is anything but boring. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this salad is sure to win hearts at your next gathering. Think of it as your favorite deli sandwich… in spoonable form!
Why You’ll Love This BLT Pasta Salad
Here’s why this dish deserves a spot on your table:
- Irresistible Flavor: Smoky bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mayo come together in a perfect blend of savory and fresh.
- Quick & Budget-Friendly: Ditch the overpriced deli counter and make this at home with pantry staples.
- Customizable & Crowd-Pleasing: Make it your own with different pastas or protein swaps—it’s as flexible as it is tasty!
If you enjoy our Garden Pasta Salad, you’ll love this fun, bacon-packed twist. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so consider doubling the recipe!
How to Make BLT Macaroni Salad
Quick Overview
This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and requires only a handful of simple ingredients. It’s a low-fuss, high-reward kind of dish—perfect for busy weeknights or easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. - Crisp the Bacon
While the pasta is cooking, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then crumble into pieces. - Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and green onions. - Dress It Up
Add mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until evenly coated. - Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together.
What to Serve With BLT Macaroni Salad
This pasta salad is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak
- BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork
- Classic Hamburgers or Hot Dogs
- Fresh Corn on the Cob or Coleslaw
For drinks, a tall glass of lemonade, iced tea, or a light beer makes the perfect pairing!
Top Tips for Perfecting It
- Al Dente is Key: Don’t overcook your pasta—it should have a little bite so it holds up well in the dressing.
- Add a Fresh Twist: Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- More Crunch? Add diced celery or a handful of shredded romaine right before serving.
- Play with Pasta Shapes: Rotini, shells, or penne all work great!
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- No Reheating Needed: This is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.
- Make Ahead: You can prep this salad a day in advance. If it seems a little dry the next day, just stir in a spoonful of mayo to refresh it.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Choose your favorite pasta variety for a healthy or allergy-friendly twist.
What’s a good bacon substitute?
Try turkey bacon, tempeh bacon, or crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Can I add other veggies?
Yes! Diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or bell peppers would be tasty additions.
Is lettuce required for a true BLT feel?
Not at all. Green onions offer a fresh crunch that holds up better over time.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You bet! Just double all ingredients and prep as usual.
Conclusion
BLT Macaroni Salad is a fun, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts, weekday dinners, or meal prep. With its creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes, it’s comfort food with a fresh twist. Even better? It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to please a crowd.
So go ahead—grab your mixing bowl and make this pasta salad the star of your next picnic or potluck. It’s a classic with a twist you’ll be coming back to all season long!
BLT Macaroni Salad
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Paper Towels
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Bacon
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then crumble into pieces.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and green onions.
- Step 4: Add mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until evenly coated.
- Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.