Best Packaged Pasta Salads of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Packaged pasta salads are a convenient and delicious option for those who want a quick and easy meal. These salads typically come in a variety of flavors and ingredients, from classic Italian to bold and spicy. They are perfect for lunch or as a side dish for dinner, and are often a healthier option than traditional fast food. Many packaged pasta salads are also customizable, allowing you to add your own ingredients or toppings to create a unique and satisfying meal. With their convenience and versatility, packaged pasta salads are a great option for busy people who still want to enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Ranch & Bacon, Twin Pack Cover #TOP 1
Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Ranch & Bacon, Twin Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Betty Crocker Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Cover #TOP 2
Betty Crocker Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon Cover #TOP 3
Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Packaged Pasta Salads

#TOP 1

Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Ranch & Bacon, Twin Pack

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Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Ranch & Bacon, Twin Pack Cover
Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, 15 Oz

Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Ranch & Bacon, Twin Pack is a packaged pasta salad mix that combines shell pasta, imitation bacon bits, and ranch seasoning. It is quick and easy to make in just three simple steps, making it a perfect tasty side dish. With the option to add additional ingredients like cubed ham, diced tomatoes, or chopped broccoli, the flavor possibilities are endless. The twin pack contains 15 oz.

What We Like
Easy and quick preparation
Delicious and satisfying flavor
Versatile with added ingredients
Great for meal prep
Ideal for warm weather
What We Don't Like
Delivery timing issues
Inconsistent vegetable texture
#TOP 2

Betty Crocker Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Pack of 4
Betty Crocker Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Cover
Betty Crocker Dry Meals Pasta Salad Creamy Italian, 8.3 oz (Pack of 4)

Betty Crocker Pasta Salad is a quick and easy meal option that can be ready in just a few minutes. Each pack makes four generous servings, perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. By partnering with Box Tops for Education, you can contribute to local schools with your purchase. This cool and creamy side dish features delicious savory seasonings and a blend of vegetables, adding flavor and nutrition to your meal. Enjoy a tasty pasta salad without the hassle of extensive cooking!

What We Like
Quick preparation time
Four servings per pack
Supports education initiatives
Flavorful seasoning blend
#TOP 3

Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon

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Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon Cover
Suddenly Pasta Salad Ranch & Bacon, 7.5 Ounces, 12 per Case

Suddenly Salad offers a delicious Ranch & Bacon pasta salad that combines herby buttermilk ranch flavor with smoky bacon for a zesty dish. You’ll appreciate the convenience of having imitation bacon bits, carrots, and peas included, making meal prep easy. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding chicken, hot sauce, and chopped celery for a Buffalo chicken twist that your friends and family will love. For more creative ideas, you can visit suddenlysalad.com, where you'll find additional recipes to impress your guests.

What We Like
Great taste
Easy to prepare
Cost-effective in bulk
Versatile meal options
Popular at family gatherings
What We Don't Like
Mayonnaise usage may vary
#TOP 4

Betty Crocker Dry Meals Pasta Salad Creamy Italian

Betty Crocker Dry Meals Pasta Salad Creamy Italian Cover
Betty Crocker Dry Meals Pasta Salad Creamy Italian, 8.3 oz

Betty Crocker Dry Meals Pasta Salad Creamy Italian is a packaged pasta salad that can be ready in minutes and serves 4 people. It features savory seasonings and a vegetable blend, and has a cool and creamy texture that makes it a perfect side dish. With 350 calories per serving, it is also a relatively healthy option. Moreover, buying this product can help support education through Box Tops for Education.

What We Like
Easy to prepare
Great flavor
Good price
Chilled pasta salad
Impressive presentation
What We Don't Like
Limited vegetables
Needs more flavor
#TOP 5

Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad Pasta Ranch & Bacon

Pasta Ranch & Bacon
Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad Pasta Ranch & Bacon Cover
Betty Crocker, Suddenly Salad, Pasta Ranch & Bacon, 7.5oz Box (Pack of 4)

Introducing Suddenly Salad Pasta Ranch & Bacon by Betty Crocker. This 7.5oz box comes in a pack of 4 and is perfect for those looking for a quick and delicious meal option. With the Pasta Bacon & Ranch flavor, you can enjoy a tasty pasta salad in no time. The Betty Crocker brand ensures high quality and great taste. The convenient 7.5oz box size makes it easy to prepare and store. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or need a side dish for dinner, Suddenly Salad Pasta Ranch & Bacon is a convenient and flavorful choice.

What We Like
Easy to prepare
Great taste
Versatile with added ingredients
Good price on Amazon
Delicious both hot and cold
What We Don't Like
Incorrect quantity received
Some boxes damaged
#TOP 6

Betty Crocker BLT Pasta Salad Mix, 7.3 oz (Pack of 12)

Betty Crocker BLT Pasta Salad Mix, 7.3 oz (Pack of 12) Cover
Suddenly Pasta Salad BLT 7.3 Ounces, 12 per Case

Betty Crocker BLT Pasta Salad Mix is a dry meal mix that is easy and quick to prepare without the usual mess. The fan favorite pasta mix combines shell pasta noodles, red peppers, and seasoning for a delicious dish that is perfect for lunch, dinner or on the side. The box contains 7.3 oz and can be served as a side or topped with cubed chicken for a main dish. Additionally, the Betty Crocker website offers additional pasta salad recipes for the whole family to love.

What We Like
Easy to prepare
Great for meal prep
Versatile with add-ins
Allergy-friendly option
Delicious flavor
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent seasoning from different stores
Order issues reported
#TOP 7

Chidester Farms Autumn Shape Pasta

Chidester Farms Autumn Shape Pasta Cover
Chidester Farms Harvest Autumn Shape Pasta, 12 Ounce

Chidester Farms Fall Pasta brings the spirit of autumn right to your table. This vibrant pasta features fun shapes like leaves and pumpkins, making it an exciting addition to your meals. You can easily whip up a delightful mac & cheese or create a unique pasta salad that reflects the season's charm. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the changing seasons and upcoming holidays with family and friends. Plus, this pasta serves six people, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

What We Like
Beautiful pasta shapes
Great for decoration
Good flavor
Fun for gifts
What We Don't Like
Smashed pieces in shipment
No return policy
#TOP 8

Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad 3 Pack

Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad 3 Pack Cover
Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad BLT Bacon,Lettuce and Tomato 7.3 Ounce ( 3 Pack)

Betty Crocker Salad Pack is perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor fun. Whether you’re planning a picnic or a backyard BBQ, this salad makes meal prep a breeze. You can enjoy delicious flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Just mix, serve, and enjoy! It’s an easy way to add freshness to your meals while keeping things simple. With its tasty combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, you’ll love how convenient and satisfying this salad is for any occasion.

What We Like
Unique flavor profile
Easy to customize
Fast delivery
Great for gatherings
What We Don't Like
Needs more bacon
#TOP 9

Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Classic Pasta Salad

Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Classic Pasta Salad Cover
Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Classic Pasta Salad, 15.5 oz

Betty Crocker Classic Pasta Salad is a dry meal mix that is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish. This fan favorite pasta mix combines shell pasta noodles, red peppers, and seasoning for a delicious dish that is full of flavor. Making pasta salad has never been easier - simply boil the noodles, rinse with cold water, and drain, then stir in the seasoning. With Betty Crocker Classic Pasta Salad, the possibilities are endless. Serve it as a side dish, add cubed chicken for a main dish, or explore additional pasta salad recipes on the Betty Crocker website. This 15.5 oz box is packed with flavor and convenience.

What We Like
Easy to prepare
Great taste
Convenient for quick meals
Flexible with additional ingredients
Good for school lunches
What We Don't Like
Somewhat bland flavor
Quality issues reported
#TOP 10

Suddenly Salad Sweet Basil Pasta Salad

Suddenly Salad Sweet Basil Pasta Salad Cover
Suddenly Salad Sweet Basil Pasta Salad - 7.7 Oz 12 Pack

Suddenly Salad Pasta Salad offers a delicious sweet basil flavor that makes it a great choice for any meal. You can enjoy this pasta salad for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish. The unique combination of bi-colored pasta noodles and red bell peppers adds both taste and color to your plate. Preparing this salad is quick and hassle-free; simply boil the noodles, rinse with cold water, and mix in the seasoning. With this product, you can easily serve it as a side or elevate it to a main dish by adding cubed chicken. Explore more recipes on the Betty Crocker website for even more ideas!

What We Like
Quick preparation
Versatile meal options
Great flavor combination
Easy to serve
Buying Guide Image

Learn More About Purchasing the Packaged Pasta Salads

Introduction to Packaged Pasta Salads

Packaged pasta salads are an easy and convenient option for a quick meal or snack. They come in a variety of flavors and can be found at most grocery stores. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we will discuss some tips for choosing the best packaged pasta salads.

Consider the Ingredients

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a packaged pasta salad is the ingredients. Look for salads that contain whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein. Avoid salads that are high in sodium, added sugars, or preservatives. It is also a good idea to check the label for allergens, such as peanuts or gluten, and choose a salad that is suitable for your dietary needs.

Think about the Serving Size

Another important factor to consider when choosing a packaged pasta salad is the serving size. Most packaged pasta salads come in single-serving sizes, but some are larger and intended to be shared. If you are looking for a quick snack, a single-serving size may be a good option. However, if you are looking for a meal, you may want to choose a larger size or opt for a salad that can be easily divided into multiple servings.

Look for a Unique Flavor

One of the benefits of choosing a packaged pasta salad is the variety of flavors available. Instead of opting for a plain or boring salad, look for something that stands out and excites your taste buds. There are many delicious flavors to choose from, such as pesto, sun-dried tomato, and lemon pepper. Experiment with different flavors to find one that you love.

Check the Price

Packaged pasta salads can vary greatly in price, depending on the brand and the ingredients used. It is a good idea to compare prices at different stores to find the best deal. Keep in mind that just because a salad is more expensive, it does not necessarily mean that it is higher quality. Be sure to consider all of the factors discussed in this article when choosing a packaged pasta salad, rather than just the price.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several important factors to consider when choosing a packaged pasta salad. Look for salads that contain whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein, and avoid those that are high in sodium, added sugars, or preservatives. Consider the serving size and choose a flavor that excites your taste buds. Finally, compare prices at different stores to find the best deal. By following these tips, you can easily find the perfect packaged pasta salad for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the five mistakes to avoid pasta salad?

When making pasta salad, it's important to avoid these common mistakes: using the wrong size and shape of pasta, overcooking or undercooking the pasta, not seasoning the pasta enough, not dressing the pasta salad while it's still warm, and making the pasta salad too far in advance.

2. How long is box pasta salad good for in the fridge?

Typically, pasta salad can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days. To ensure its freshness, it is important to store it in an airtight container and keep it cold. If the pasta salad contains dairy products like cheese or milk, its shelf life will be shorter.

3. What is the best pasta for pasta salad?

Fusilli, rotini, and cavatappi are excellent choices for pasta salad. These spiral-shaped pastas are ideal because their curves help catch and hold the dressing, ensuring flavor in every bite.

4. Should you rinse pasta in cold water for pasta salad?

Rinsing pasta in cold water is recommended only when using it in a cold dish like pasta salad or when not using it immediately. Rinsing helps stop the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming overcooked. In other cases, it's best to keep the starch on the pasta, as it helps the sauce adhere to it.

5. How long is store-bought pasta salad good for after opening?

When stored correctly, store-bought pasta salad can last between 4 to 7 days. It is important to use sealed containers or freezer-quality storage bags to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.

6. Can you eat week-old pasta salad?

Pasta salad can generally be consumed within 4 to 7 days if stored correctly. It is important to use sealed containers or freezer-quality storage bags to maintain its quality. If frozen, it can be stored for up to three months.

7. Can you eat expired boxed pasta salad?

While the product may still be safe to eat after the expiration date, its taste, texture, and vitamin content may have diminished. It is important to consider the use-by date before consuming the product.

Editor's Notes

During our packaged pasta salad research, we found 24 packaged pasta salad products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 27,545 customer reviews through our big data system to write the packaged pasta salads list. We found that most customers choose packaged pasta salads with an average price of $18.82.

The packaged pasta salads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of packaged pasta salads, including Suddenly Salad, Chidester Farms, Betty Crocker. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Packaged Pasta Salads Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Suddenly Salad Suddenly Salad Suddenly Salad Suddenly Salad Suddenly Salad Suddenly Salad Chidester Farms Betty Crocker Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad
Package Information Pack Box Pack Box - Pack Bag Pack Box Box
Flavor Ranch Bacon Creamy Italian - Creamy Italian Bacon Bacon Lettuce Tomato Cheese,Salted Bacon Chicken Sweet Basil
Item Weight 15 Ounces 33.2 Ounces 7.5 Ounces 8.3 Ounces 32 Ounces 7.3 Ounces 12 Ounces - - 2 Pounds
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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