This Loaded Italian Pasta Salad is one of those recipes that disappears fast every single time I make it. It’s packed with salame, ham, Colby jack cheese, banana peppers, cherry tomatoes, pasta, and tons of flavor from Italian dressing and Salad Supreme seasoning.
It’s easy, filling, and perfect for BBQs, summer gatherings, meal prep, or even a quick lunch straight from the fridge.
Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe card with exact measurements and instructions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy to make
- Perfect for parties and BBQs
- Full of flavor
- Great for meal prep
- Easily customizable
- Tastes even better chilled
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Garden Rotini pasta
- Salame
- Ham
- Colby jack cheese
- Banana peppers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Italian dressing
- Salad Supreme seasoning
- Parmesan cheese
How To Make Loaded Italian Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Cook the Garden Rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta completely.
Step 2: Prep the mix-ins
Chop the salame, ham, and Colby jack cheese into bite-sized pieces. Slice the banana peppers and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Step 3: Combine everything
Add the cooled pasta, meat, cheese, banana peppers, and tomatoes to a large bowl.
Step 4: Add dressing and seasoning
Pour Italian dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle generously with Salad Supreme seasoning and mix again.
Step 5: Finish and chill
Top with Parmesan cheese and refrigerate before serving for the best flavor.
Tips For The Best Pasta Salad
- Rinse the pasta with cold water so it stops cooking and cools down quickly.
- Don’t overdress it at first — pasta absorbs dressing as it chills.
- Add extra dressing before serving if needed.
- Cube the cheese small so you get a little bit in every bite.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Loaded Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the Garden Rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- While the pasta cools, chop the salame, ham, and Colby jack cheese into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl along with the chopped salame, ham, cheese, banana peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
- Pour Italian dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle generously with Salad Supreme seasoning and mix again.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
- Add more Italian dressing before serving if the pasta absorbs too much while chilling.
- Black olives or red onion also make great additions.
- Best served cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad is actually even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours.
What dressing works best?
Italian dressing works best for this recipe, especially zesty Italian.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely. Black olives, red onion, cucumbers, or pepperoni are all great additions.
How long does pasta salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 4 days.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir in a little extra Italian dressing before serving if the pasta absorbs too much moisture.
Freezing
This recipe is not recommended for freezing since the pasta and fresh vegetables change texture after thawing.
More Easy Side Dish Recipes
- Cherry Tomato Feta Pasta
- Crispy Baked Potatoes & Chicken
- Chili Baked Potato Bowls
- Roasted Tomato Burrata Bread Dip
- Creamy Tomato & Sausage Pasta
This was a hit at the potluck!