Club Sandwich Pasta Salad: A Perfect Mashup! 🍝🥪✨
If you love a classic club sandwich, then you’re going to adore this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad! It’s the perfect balance of tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy turkey bacon, fresh veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re preparing for a BBQ, picnic, or meal prep, this salad is your go-to for a quick, satisfying lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
✔ Packed with Protein – Chicken and turkey bacon make it hearty and filling.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Easy to make ahead and stays fresh for days.
✔ Customizable – Add avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or croutons for extra texture.
✔ Super Flavorful – The creamy dressing combined with fresh ingredients creates the ultimate pasta salad!
Ingredients 🛒
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne work best!) 🍝
- 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience!) 🍗
- 1 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled (for a smoky, crispy touch!) 🥓
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (adds crunch and freshness!) 🥬
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that cheesy goodness!) 🧀
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (adds a sharp, tangy bite!) 🧅
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (for a classic creamy base)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (adds tanginess and a lighter texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (enhances the flavor with a slight kick!)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (balances the richness with acidity)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for extra seasoning)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for a herby freshness!) 🌿
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water, then let it cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3️⃣ Assemble the Pasta Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, turkey bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
4️⃣ Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
✔ Serve chilled as a side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or picnics.
✔ Enjoy as a main dish with crusty bread or fresh fruit.
✔ Pair with a bowl of soup for a complete, satisfying meal.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and ingredients separately, then toss together just before serving.
- Avoid Sogginess: If making ahead, add lettuce right before serving to maintain crunch.
This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is the perfect way to combine the best parts of a classic club sandwich into a creamy, crunchy, and protein-packed salad! Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion! 🥪🍝🥗