Name: Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz rotini pasta; 2 cups baby dill pickles, chopped; 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded; ½ cup sweet yellow onion, finely diced; ½ cup green onion, sliced; 4 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; ¾ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; ⅓ cup dill pickle juice; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

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I really enjoy how this dill pickle pasta salad brings together creamy textures and bold, tangy flavors. The combination of tender pasta, crunchy pickles, and a rich dressing creates a dish that feels refreshing and satisfying at the same time. I like serving it chilled, especially when I want something simple but full of character. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is easy to prepare and doesn’t require complicated techniques. I enjoy how the dill pickle flavor shines through while still blending smoothly with the creamy dressing. I also like that it works well for casual meals, potlucks, or as a reliable side dish that everyone recognizes and enjoys.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 oz rotini pasta
2 cups baby dill pickles, chopped
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
½ cup sweet yellow onion, finely diced
½ cup green onion, sliced
4 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
¾ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
⅓ cup dill pickle juice
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

I begin by cooking the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted water until it is al dente. I drain the pasta and allow it to cool completely. While it cools, I chop the pickles, onions, cheese, and fresh dill. In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. I add the cooled pasta to the bowl, then mix in the pickles, cheese, onions, and dill. I gently stir everything together until well combined. I cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least one hour before serving.

Servings And Timing

I usually get about 8 servings from this recipe. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, cooking time is about 10 minutes, and chilling time takes at least 1 hour. The total time comes to approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add extra fresh dill for a stronger herbal flavor. I like substituting the cheddar cheese with Colby Jack or mild mozzarella for a different taste. For extra crunch, I mix in finely chopped celery or additional green onions. When I want a stronger pickle flavor, I add a little more pickle juice to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

I store this pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I always serve it cold and do not reheat it. If the salad thickens after chilling, I stir in a small amount of mayonnaise or sour cream to refresh the texture.

FAQs

Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance?

I often make it a day ahead since the flavors blend even better after resting in the refrigerator.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

I prefer rotini because it holds the dressing well, but I also use bowtie or penne when needed.

Is the pickle flavor very strong?

I find it balanced and flavorful. If I want it milder, I reduce the amount of pickle juice slightly.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

I prefer fresh dill for the best flavor, but I use dried dill in a smaller amount when fresh isn’t available.

How do I keep the salad from drying out?

I make sure the pasta is fully cooled before mixing, and I add a small amount of dressing before serving if needed.

Conclusion

I like making this dill pickle pasta salad when I want a creamy, tangy dish that is easy to prepare and enjoyable to share. It is versatile, flavorful, and always a dependable recipe to keep on hand.