Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Creamy Pasta Salad for a BBQ

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Anna

Description

Creamy, tangy, and packed with crunch, this Best Creamy Pasta Salad for a BBQ is the ultimate summer side dish. Tender pasta, fresh veggies, and a luscious dressing make it perfect for cookouts, picnics, and potlucks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Cook pasta until just past al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Place cooled pasta in a mixing bowl with celery, red bell pepper, red onion, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Pour dressing over pasta and veggies. Toss gently until coated.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for flavors to meld.
  6. Finishing Touches: Stir before serving and add extra dressing if needed.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled, garnished with parsley.

Notes

  • Chill at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
  • Make extra dressing to refresh leftovers.
  • Dice veggies small for even distribution.
  • Not freezer-friendly, but stores well in fridge for 3–4 days.