Kid-Friendly Pasta Salad – The Perfect Party & Picnic Side!

Hey busy parents! 


Looking for a lunchbox hero or party pleaser that kids actually want to eat? This Kid-Friendly Pasta Salad is your new best friend! With fun-shaped pasta, crispy bacon, cheddar cubes, and a creamy dressing, it's a guaranteed hit with even the pickiest eaters. Ready in 35 minutes and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weekly meal prep! Let's get mixing! 






Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rated 4.5 Stars by parents everywhere! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  • Ready in 35 minutes - perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with kid-friendly flavors everyone loves.
  • Great for meal prep - makes 8 servings!


Tools You'll Need

Large Pot

Large Skillet

Mixing Bowls (various sizes)

Colander


Ingredients

  • 12 ounces fun-shaped pasta, such as radiatore
  • 8 slices thin bacon
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Dash sugar, optional
  • 10 ounces grape tomatoes (yellow and red), halved lengthwise
  • 1/2 pound Cheddar, cut into small cubes
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Ground black pepper
  • 24 whole basil leaves, chiffonade


Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions. Then drain and rinse in cold water until cool. Set aside.
  2. Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch pieces and throw into a large skillet. Saute until slightly crisp, and then remove to a paper-towel-lined-plate.
  3. For the dressing, mix the mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, salt, and sugar if using in a small bowl.
  4. Stir together the pasta, dressing, tomatoes, bacon, Cheddar and green onions in a large mixing bowl.
  5. Taste for seasonings, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Stir in the basil at the end. Chill until serving! 


Pro Tips

  • Fun shapes matter! Kids love radiatore, farfalle, or rotini - they hold dressing better too.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
  • Make it ahead - flavors meld beautifully when refrigerated for a few hours.


Recipe Variations

  • Veggie Boost: Add chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, or steamed broccoli florets.
  • Protein Power: Substitute cooked chicken or turkey for bacon.
  • Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo and your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.


FAQs

How long does this pasta salad keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Perfect for meal prep!

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the bacon and add extra cheese or some chickpeas for protein.

What if my kids don't like basil?
No problem! Substitute with parsley or simply omit it altogether.



Kid-Friendly Pasta Salad Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins

Yield: 8 servings

Nutrition Info: Available soon

Level: Easy

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fun-shaped pasta
  • 8 slices bacon
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 3 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Dash sugar (optional)
  • 10 oz grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 lb Cheddar, cubed
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 24 basil leaves, chiffonade

Instructions:

  1. Cook and cool pasta according to package directions.
  2. Cook bacon until crisp. Drain and set aside.
  3. Whisk together mayo, milk, vinegar, salt, and sugar.
  4. Combine pasta, dressing, tomatoes, bacon, cheese, and onions.
  5. Season with pepper. Add basil just before serving.


So there you have it - the ultimate Kid-Friendly Pasta Salad that will make you the hero of lunchboxes and parties alike! 

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments what fun pasta shapes your kids loved most. 

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