There’s something magical about the way a simple macaroni salad can bring people together, but when you introduce the bold, tangy crunch of dill pickles into the mix? Now, that’s a game changer. This Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and zesty flavors, making it an instant hit at barbecues, picnics, or even as a satisfying snack straight from the fridge. Every bite delivers a delightful contrast—smooth, velvety dressing balanced by the crisp bite of pickles and the richness of sharp cheddar cheese.
Imagine a dish so easy to prepare yet bursting with flavors that get even better with time. The secret lies in the pickle brine-infused dressing, giving it an irresistibly tangy depth. Plus, with its bright pops of fresh dill and the tender chew of pasta, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it on its own, get ready for a macaroni salad that’s anything but ordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pickle Lover’s Dream – Packed with diced pickles and infused with their briny goodness, every bite is full of tangy, crunchy delight.
- Creamy & Savory – The mayo-sour cream dressing is rich but balanced with fresh dill and onion powder for extra depth.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – This salad actually gets better as it chills, making it perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
- Cheese, Cheese, Cheese – Cubed sharp cheddar brings a bold, salty contrast to the zippy dressing.
- No-Fuss, Quick Prep – Just a few simple steps, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients needed
For the Dressing:
- Mayonnaise (1 cup) – The creamy base that holds everything together.
- Sour Cream (½ cup) – Adds a slightly tangy richness.
- Dill Pickle Brine (¼ cup) – This secret ingredient infuses the salad with bold pickle flavor.
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon) – Provides a subtle savory boost.
- Fresh Dill (2 tbsp, chopped) – Brings in a pop of herbaceous freshness.
For the Salad:
- Cellentani or Corkscrew Pasta (1 lb) – The perfect shape to hold onto all that creamy dressing.
- Dill Pickles (2 cups, finely diced) – Adds crunch, acidity, and tons of flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, cubed) – The stronger, the better for balancing flavors.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dill pickle brine, onion powder, and chopped fresh dill. Stir well until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add diced pickles and cubed cheddar cheese to the cooled pasta. Pour the dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is well-coated.
- Season & Garnish: Taste and adjust with kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Sprinkle extra fresh dill on top for a fresh, herby finish.
- Chill & Serve: For best results, refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Variations & Substitutions
- Switch the Pasta: Don’t have cellentani? Use elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne.
- Different Cheese Options: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
- More Add-Ins: Toss in crispy bacon, diced ham, or hard-boiled eggs for an extra hearty touch.
- Lighter Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie alternative.
- Different Pickles: Swap dill pickles for bread-and-butter pickles if you prefer a hint of sweetness.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier!
- No Freezing: This salad isn’t freezer-friendly due to the creamy dressing, which may separate when thawed.
- Serving Tip: Before serving leftovers, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors have time to meld together.
2. What can I serve with Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, BBQ chicken, burgers, or even as a side for sandwiches.
3. Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh dill gives the best flavor. If using dried, start with 1 teaspoon and adjust as needed.
The Goods
Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad
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Recipes
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup dill pickle brine from the pickle jar
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Salad:
- 1 pound cellentani or corkscrew pasta
- 2 cups baby dill pickles finely diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese cubed
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Let it drain completely before transferring to a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle brine, onion powder, and chopped fresh dill until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl. Pour in the dressing, followed by the diced pickles and cubed cheddar cheese. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated, and the mix-ins are well distributed.
Season & Garnish
- Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with extra chopped dill for a fresh, vibrant finish.
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