The Best Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
Craving that creamy, nostalgic pasta salad from Ruby Tuesday?
Now you can make it at home in just 30 minutes!
Packed with tender rotini, savory ham, and a rich, ranch-flavored dressing, this easy recipe is a potluck favorite and the perfect make-ahead side dish.
Every bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part? It gets even better as it chills.
Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, packing it for lunch, or just whipping up a quick side, this pasta salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive in—you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
For the Pasta Salad
- Rotini Pasta – The perfect pasta shape for holding onto all that creamy dressing.
- Mayonnaise – Gives the salad its signature creamy texture.
- Buttermilk – Adds a slight tang and helps thin out the dressing.
- Dried Ranch Seasoning – Packs in the flavor without extra effort.
- Garlic Salt – Enhances the overall taste with a subtle garlic kick.
- Black Pepper – A touch of spice to balance the creaminess.
- Frozen Peas – Sweet, tender, and add a pop of color.
- Ham – Diced into small pieces for the perfect savory bite.
For Customization & Additions
- Diced Green Peppers – Optional but adds a fresh, crisp crunch.
- Extra Buttermilk or Mayo – Adjust for your desired creaminess.
- Chilled Peas – Can be added straight from frozen to keep the salad extra cold.
Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe
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Ingredients
- 1 pound (16 ounces) rotini pasta
- 1 ¾ cups mayonnaise
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons dried ranch seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 10 ounces frozen peas
- 8 ounces ham, diced
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Prepare the rotini according to the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Ensure it is well-drained before using.
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, garlic salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients
- In a separate large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, frozen peas, and diced ham.
- Mix & Chill
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Give the salad a good stir before serving.
Notes & Tips
- The pasta salad can be enjoyed immediately but tastes best after chilling for an hour.
- For a slight variation, add one diced green bell pepper for extra crunch.
- If you prefer, milk can be substituted for buttermilk, but this will alter the flavor.
- Peas can be added straight from frozen—they will thaw in the salad and help keep it cool.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freezing is not recommended.
Nutrition
Calories: 438kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 28g | Sodium: 725mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g
- Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better after chilling for an hour or two. The flavors blend together, making it extra delicious. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it right away, but trust me—letting it sit in the fridge for a bit makes all the difference!
- Do I really need to rinse the pasta after cooking?
Yes! Rinsing stops the cooking process and washes away excess starch, which keeps the pasta from sticking together. It also helps cool the pasta quickly so you can mix everything right away without melting the dressing.
- Can I swap the ranch dressing for something else?
Of course! The ranch seasoning gives it that signature Ruby Tuesday flavor, but if you want to switch things up, try an Italian dressing, a tangy vinaigrette, or even a homemade creamy dressing. Just keep in mind, changing the dressing will change the overall taste!
- How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Before serving, give it a good stir and, if needed, add a splash of buttermilk or mayo to freshen it up.
- Can I add extra ingredients?
Absolutely! Want to bulk it up? Toss in some shredded cheese, diced bell peppers or chopped hard-boiled eggs. This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to make it your own!
