Here’s a classic, crowd-pleasing Creamy Pasta Salad — tangy, flavorful, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick side dish.
🍝 Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or dill
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, vinegar/lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Combine salad
- In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, celery, bell pepper, onion, cheese, and eggs (if using).
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
4️⃣ Chill & serve
- Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
- Garnish with parsley or dill if desired.
🔥 Tips & Variations
- Add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for protein.
- Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
- Mix in grapes, apples, or dried cranberries for sweetness.
- Use Italian dressing instead of creamy dressing for an Italian-style pasta salad.
I can also give you:
- Southwestern creamy pasta salad with corn, black beans, and taco seasoning
- Creamy avocado pasta salad
- Cheesy baked pasta salad
Do you want a classic creamy version or a Southwestern/cheesy variation?
