Creamy, Cheesy Pasta Salad
This creamy, cheesy pasta salad is a perfect addition to any BBQ, picnic, or casual gathering. With the delightful blend of sharp cheddar cheese, crunchy dill pickles, and the richness of hard-boiled eggs, this dish is sure to please all your guests. Itβs a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time, with its creamy dressing and deliciously satisfying flavors. If you love cheese in your pasta salad, this recipe will become your go-to!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 cup |
| Dill pickles, chopped | 3 medium |
| Hard-boiled eggs, chopped | 3 |
| Celery ribs, chopped | 2 |
| Onion, chopped | 3/4 cup |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Splenda sugar substitute | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 439.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 109.5 mg |
| Sodium | 679.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 43.5 g |
| Fiber | 3.1 g |
| Sugars | 11.9 g |
| Protein | 16.2 g |
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions, until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool. -
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
While the pasta is cooling, chop the dill pickles, hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese. -
Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the elbow macaroni with the chopped dill pickles, hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Set the salad aside. -
Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise and milk. Stir well to create a smooth base. Add the sugar, Splenda sugar substitute, and cider vinegar. Whisk until the dressing is well mixed and smooth. -
Season the Dressing:
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to suit your preference. -
Toss the Salad and Dressing Together:
Pour the dressing over the prepared pasta salad and gently toss everything together to combine. Make sure the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. -
Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best results, allow the salad to sit overnight so the flavors can meld together. -
Serve:
Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta salad as a perfect side dish at any gathering!
Cooking Tips:
- Make Ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better after sitting for a while. If you’re planning ahead, make it the day before and let it chill overnight for the flavors to fully develop.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the salad by adding extras like green peppers, olives, or even a sprinkle of bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
- Dress it Up: If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can increase the amount of cider vinegar in the dressing.
Recipe Summary:
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours (chilling time)
Servings: This recipe yields enough to serve a crowd, making it perfect for parties, BBQs, or family gatherings.
This creamy, cheesy pasta salad is not only easy to make but will definitely impress your guests with its satisfying flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, youβll create a dish thatβs rich, creamy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic or a casual family dinner, this pasta salad will always be a hit!
Love With Recipes Tip: For an extra twist, try using a blend of different cheeses such as mozzarella or colby jack in place of the cheddar.
