Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is a zesty, refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad that’s bursting with bold pickle flavor. It combines tender pasta, crunchy dill pickles, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy, creamy dressing to create the ultimate side dish for summer gatherings, BBQs, or weekday lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a pickle lover, this pasta salad is going to be your new favorite. It’s crunchy, creamy, tangy, and satisfying all at once. It comes together quickly with minimal prep, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and is incredibly versatile. This salad can be made ahead of time, travels well, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any picnic or potluck.

ingredients

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

Pasta (such as rotini, bowtie, or elbow)
Dill pickles, chopped
Cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
Red onion, finely diced
Fresh dill, chopped
Mayonnaise
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Pickle juice
Garlic powder
Salt and black pepper

directions

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pickles, cheddar cheese, red onion, and fresh dill.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Add the cooled pasta to the large mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6–8 people as a side dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, ham, or crispy bacon to make it more of a main dish.
Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Use different cheeses: Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a fun twist.
Swap the pasta: Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta can be used depending on dietary needs.
Make it vegan: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This salad is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing over time, stir in a little more mayo or pickle juice before serving to refresh the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Dill Pickle Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is actually better when made a few hours in advance. It allows the flavors to develop and meld.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, bowtie, or elbow hold the dressing well and are easy to eat.

Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?

You can, but the flavor will change significantly. Dill pickles give it the signature tangy taste.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook it just until al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining.

Is it okay to add other veggies?

Absolutely. Cucumbers, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots can add extra crunch and color.

How long will this salad stay fresh?

It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days, although the texture may soften slightly over time.

Can I use pickle relish instead of chopped pickles?

You can, but chopped pickles provide a better crunch and more texture.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other semi-hard cheeses.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

No, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the mayo-based dressing and fresh vegetables.

How do I adjust the tanginess?

Increase or decrease the pickle juice in the dressing to control how tangy it tastes.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is the ultimate combination of creamy comfort and briny brightness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or prepping meals for the week, this salad is easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress. Try it once and it’s bound to become a regular in your rotation.