This Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a game-changer for pickle lovers! Creamy, tangy, and loaded with crunchy dill pickles and cheese, it’s the perfect potluck dish that combines the comfort of pasta salad with the zingy kick of dill pickles. Ready in just minutes of hands-on time, this crowd-pleasing side dish is ideal for summer gatherings, barbecues, or just when you’re craving something different from your usual pasta salad routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Make-Ahead Dish: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator for the best taste experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even those skeptical about pickles in pasta salad will be coming back for seconds – I’ve converted many non-believers with this recipe!
Versatile: Works as a side dish for almost any main course, from grilled meats to sandwiches, or even as a light lunch on its own.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t break the bank but still delivers big flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shell Pasta: The perfect shape for catching all that creamy dressing in its crevices. The little pockets hold bits of pickle and seasoning for flavor in every bite.
Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the dressing. Use real mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and a silky texture to the dressing. It balances the richness of the mayonnaise beautifully.
Dijon Mustard: Provides a sharp, spicy kick that cuts through the creaminess and complements the pickle flavor.
Salad Supreme Seasoning: This McCormick’s blend is the secret ingredient that adds incredible flavor depth with its mix of herbs and spices.
Black Pepper: Just a touch to enhance all the other flavors without overwhelming them.
Colby-Monterey Jack Cheese: Mild, melty cheese that adds richness and a wonderful texture contrast to the pasta and pickles.
Dill Pickles: The star of the show! They bring crunch, tang, and that unmistakable dill pickle flavor that makes this pasta salad unique.
Pickle Juice: Don’t throw it away! This liquid gold infuses the entire salad with pickle flavor and adds the perfect amount of acidity.
Fresh Dill Weed: Enhances the dill flavor and adds a fresh, herbaceous note and visual appeal to the salad.

Variations

Protein Additions

Add diced ham, chicken, or hard-boiled eggs to transform this side dish into a complete meal.

Vegetable Boost

Mix in diced bell peppers, celery, red onion, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and nutrition.

Cheese Swaps

Try cubed cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack instead of the Colby-Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Spicy Version

Add a diced jalapeño or a few shakes of hot sauce to give this salad some heat.

How to Make Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the shell pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, and transfer to a large bowl to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Salad Supreme seasoning, black pepper, and pickle juice until smooth and well combined. The dressing should be creamy but pourable.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the cooled pasta and toss gently to coat every piece. Add the sliced dill pickles, shredded cheese, and fresh dill, then fold everything together until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is even better. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb some of the dressing.

Step 5: Serve

Before serving, give the salad a good stir and taste for seasoning. Add more pickle juice, salt, or pepper if needed.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook Pasta Properly: Slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue to soften as it absorbs the dressing.
Save Some Pickle Juice: Keep an extra tablespoon or two of pickle juice on hand to refresh the salad just before serving if it seems dry.
Uniform Pickle Slices: Try to cut the pickles into similar-sized pieces for consistent flavor distribution and easier eating.
Temperature Matters: This salad tastes best when thoroughly chilled, so don’t rush the refrigeration time.
Season to Taste: Everyone’s preferences differ, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings before serving.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This pickle pasta salad is fantastic alongside grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, or pulled pork. The tangy flavor cuts through rich meats beautifully.

Potluck Star

Bring this to your next gathering in a pretty bowl with serving spoons. Include a label for those with dietary concerns – it’s always appreciated!

Meal Prep

Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Just give it a quick stir before eating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor actually improves after the first day as the ingredients meld together.

Best Serving Window

This salad tastes best within the first 3 days, though it remains safe to eat longer. The pasta may absorb more dressing over time.

Not Recommended for Freezing

Due to the mayonnaise and dairy content, this pasta salad doesn’t freeze well. The texture would become grainy upon thawing.

Refreshing Leftovers

If the pasta salad seems dry after a day or two in the refrigerator, stir in a splash of pickle juice or a tablespoon of mayonnaise to revive the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shell pasta is ideal for catching the dressing, rotini, bow ties, or even elbow macaroni work wonderfully too. Just make sure to choose a shape with nooks and crannies to hold the creamy dressing.

What can I substitute for Salad Supreme seasoning if I can’t find it?
You can create your own blend with paprika, celery seed, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Add a little garlic powder and some dried parsley, and you’ll have a great alternative that captures the essence of Salad Supreme.

Can I make this recipe lighter or healthier?
Yes! Try using light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers, celery, or cherry tomatoes, and use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.

How far in advance can I make this pasta salad?
This salad actually improves with time! You can safely make it up to 2 days before serving. Just give it a good stir before bringing it to the table, and refresh with a little extra pickle juice if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Dill Pickle Pasta Salad brings together the comfort of creamy pasta with the addictive tang of dill pickles in a way that’s simply irresistible. I’ve watched even the most skeptical eaters fall in love with this unique combination of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a standout dish for your next cookout or just want to shake up your weeknight dinner routine, give this recipe a try – I guarantee those pickle lovers in your life will be asking for the recipe!

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe