This Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is a refreshing and tangy twist on traditional pasta salad. It’s packed with crunchy pickles, tender pasta, and a creamy dill-infused dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or as a quick lunch, this dish delivers bold flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dill pickle pasta salad is not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also easy to throw together with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. The creamy dill dressing is a dream for pickle lovers, and the texture contrast between crisp pickles and tender pasta makes it a standout. It’s a great make-ahead recipe for potlucks, picnics, or just a weekday meal prep.

ingredients

Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta 9 This Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is a refreshing and tangy twist on traditional pasta salad. It’s packed with crunchy pickles, tender pasta, and a creamy dill-infused dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you're serving it at a summer BBQ or as a quick lunch, this dish delivers bold flavor in every bite.

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

Pasta (such as rotini or macaroni)
Dill pickles, chopped
Pickle juice
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Fresh dill, chopped
Red onion, finely diced
Cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped dill pickles, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the pickle mixture and pour the dressing over the top.
Toss everything until well combined and evenly coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky touch.
Toss in some chopped celery or green onions for added crunch and flavor.
Substitute cheddar with Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese.
For a spicy twist, add chopped pickled jalapeños.

storage/reheating

Store leftover dill pickle pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing. This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy dressing. It is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How long can I keep dill pickle pasta salad in the fridge?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made a few hours ahead so the flavors have time to meld.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta like rotini, macaroni, or bowties hold the dressing well and are perfect for this dish.

Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?

You can, but it will change the flavor profile. Dill pickles give this salad its signature tang.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the other ingredient labels as well.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, use about one-third the amount of dried dill compared to fresh.

What protein can I add to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, diced ham, or even canned tuna work well as protein additions.

Can I skip the cheese?

Absolutely, the salad will still be flavorful without it.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water and toss with a little olive oil before mixing.

What should I serve with dill pickle pasta salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, or even as a standalone dish for lunch.

Conclusion

This Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is a zesty, creamy, and crunchy dish that brings big flavor to any table. Whether you’re a pickle fanatic or just looking for a new side dish idea, this recipe is easy, customizable, and sure to please. Make it once, and it might just become a staple in your rotation.

Let me know if you’d like a printable version or a recipe card layout!