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Simple Jalapeño Popper Pasta dSala

Creamy Simple Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

Try this Simple Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad, a creamy dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta Use Barilla for best al dente results.
  • 6 slices bacon Ensure it's crispy before crumbling.
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Use freshly shredded for best melting.
  • 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded Freshly shredded enhances flavor and distribution.
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped Can substitute with parsley for a milder flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 4 ounces cream cheese Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Hellmann's is preferred for a cohesive taste.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Can sub with apple cider vinegar.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika can be used but will lack smokiness.
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, diced Adjust quantity to taste for spice level.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Paper Towels

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse pasta under cold water.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon from skillet and drain on paper towels, allowing it to cool before crumbling.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Whisk together until smooth, then stir in red wine vinegar, pepper powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Fold in diced pickled jalapeños.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro. Gently toss until mixed well.
  5. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the salad until every piece is coated.
  6. Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Before serving, slice a fresh jalapeño for garnish and sprinkle it on top of the pasta salad along with additional cilantro leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending; use freshly shredded cheese for best texture. Adjust spice levels to taste and chill before serving for the best flavor.

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