Description
Cheddar & sour cream pasta salad is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful side dish that combines tender pasta with a rich dressing and bold cheddar cheese. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chives, parsley, or paprika for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and mix until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Fold in the cheddar cheese and green onions.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika before serving, if desired.
Notes
Rinse the pasta to stop cooking and cool it for the salad.Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.Stir in extra mayo or sour cream after chilling if the salad seems dry.Best served cold, but can be slightly warmed if preferred.Add protein like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for a more filling meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
