Cheddar & Sour Cream Pasta Salad is a delicious and creamy dish that makes a great side for any meal. It’s packed with flavor from sharp cheddar cheese and fresh vegetables. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply a family dinner. It is easy to make and can be adapted to suit your tastes.
Why Make This Recipe
This pasta salad is not only tasty but also very versatile. It’s a great way to use everyday ingredients to create something special. The creamy texture from the sour cream and mayonnaise pairs perfectly with the crunch of the veggies. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days.
How to Make Cheddar & Sour Cream Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Cook the rotini in salted water according to the package directions until just tender.
- Drain the pasta and briefly rinse under cool water. Drain thoroughly and let the pasta cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
- Fold in the cubed cheddar, celery, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Stir before serving, adding a little extra sour cream if needed.
How to Serve Cheddar & Sour Cream Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad chilled as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. You can also top it with additional diced vegetables or herbs for more color and flavor.
How to Store Cheddar & Sour Cream Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 days. If the salad seems dry after a couple of days, you can add a spoonful of sour cream to freshen it up.
Tips to Make Cheddar & Sour Cream Pasta Salad
- Make sure your pasta is cooled before mixing to prevent the cheese from melting.
- For a bit of spice, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Customize your vegetables by adding diced cucumbers or carrots based on your preference.
Variation
You can change the cheese type or add cooked bacon for an extra kick. Swap the rotini with another pasta shape like penne or farfalle for a different texture.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best to prepare it a few hours in advance or even the night before.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative and adds a nice tangy flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Enjoy making and serving this delightful Cheddar & Sour Cream Pasta Salad!
