Name: Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces rotini pasta; 1 ½ cups sliced dill pickles; ⅔ cup cheddar cheese, cubed; 2 tablespoons finely diced white onion; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; ¾ cup dill pickle juice (divided); ⅔ cup mayonnaise; ⅓ cup sour cream; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Why You’ll Love Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe

This easy pasta salad delivers bright tanginess from dill pickles and pickle juice balanced with creamy mayo and sour cream. The rotini pasta holds onto every bit of dressing and flavor, while sharp cheddar and fresh herbs add texture and freshness. It’s perfect chilled, makes great leftovers, and is sure to be a conversation starter at gatherings.

Ingredients

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

Pasta salad:
16 ounce package rotini pasta
2 cups baby dill pickles, sliced
1½ cup diced sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
½ cup sliced green onion
4 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Dressing:
¾ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
⅓ cup dill pickle juice
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon chipotle powder

Directions

Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of water and cook the rotini until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Combine the salad: Add the sliced dill pickles, diced cheddar cheese, sweet yellow onion, green onion, and 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped dill to the cooled pasta. Toss to combine.
Make the dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dill pickle juice, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chipotle powder in a medium bowl until smooth.
Assemble and chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8
Prep time: About 15 minutes
Cook time: About 15 minutes
Chill time: At least 1 hour
Total time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Add crumbled cooked bacon for extra savory crunch.
Substitute Colby Jack or pepper Jack cheese for the cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Use red onion instead of sweet yellow onion for a sharper bite.
For extra heat, add a pinch of chili powder or diced jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The dressing may settle or absorb into the pasta over time—just give it a good stir before serving. You can add a splash of pickle juice or a spoonful of mayo or sour cream to refresh the creaminess if needed.

FAQs

What type of pasta is best for this salad?

Rotini pasta works great because its spiral shape holds onto the creamy dressing, but shells, bowties, or elbow macaroni can also work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this salad often tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors have time to meld.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it should keep well for 3–4 days.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, dried dill can be used in a pinch—use about one‑third the amount of fresh.

Is this salad spicy?

The base recipe is tangy, not spicy—if you want heat, add chipotle powder or hot sauce to taste.

Can I leave out the onions?

Yes, you can omit onions or swap sweet yellow for red onion depending on your preference.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with grilled meats like hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, or BBQ dishes.

Can I make it lighter?

To lighten the dressing, substitute plain Greek yogurt for the sour cream.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, cherry tomatoes or diced celery can add freshness and crunch.

Can I make this gluten‑free?

Yes—use a gluten‑free short pasta to make this salad suitable for gluten‑free diets.

Conclusion

This Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a refreshing, quirky twist on traditional pasta salads with its tangy pickle punch and creamy dressing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals ahead of time, it’s easy to make, versatile, and full of bold flavor that pickle lovers will adore.