Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Briny, Bright Flavor: Dill pickles add a bold, tangy kick that perfectly balances the creaminess of the dressing.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better as it sits in the fridge, making it a great dish to prepare in advance.
Budget-Friendly: Easy to prepare with common pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
Customizable: Feel free to add proteins, veggies, or even spice it up depending on your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup chopped dill pickles (Grillo’s or Claussen are great options)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons pickle juice
3/4 cup mayo
1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

Chopped hard-boiled eggs
Crispy bacon
Diced ham or shredded chicken
A dash of hot sauce for heat

Directions

Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool slightly, then toss with 1 tablespoon of pickle juice for extra tang.
Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, remaining pickle juice, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chopped pickles, celery, red onion, cheddar cheese, and any optional add-ins. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold to coat everything evenly.
Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. Stir before serving and garnish with extra dill or chopped pickles for a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

Servings: This recipe yields about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour (up to 24 hours)
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chill time)

Variations

Spicy Pickle Mac Salad: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda.
Garlic Dill Parmesan Twist: Add minced garlic or roasted garlic and ¼ cup grated Parmesan. Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad: Stir in 3 chopped hard-boiled eggs, increase Dijon mustard, and sprinkle with smoked paprika.
Pickle Ranch Bacon Explosion: Add crumbled bacon and swap some mayo for ranch dressing. Toss in shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of chives.
Herby Garden Pickle Salad: Add chopped fresh parsley, basil, and scallions, along with blanched peas, chopped cucumbers, and diced bell pepper.
Plant-Based Pickle Mac: Use vegan mayo and sour cream, skip cheese or use dairy-free cheddar, and add chickpeas or smoked tofu for protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This dish is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving if you’d like it to soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I make this macaroni salad in advance?

Yes! In fact, it gets even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.

What kind of pickles should I use?

Grillo’s or Claussen dill pickles are great choices due to their bold flavor and crunch. You can also use your favorite brand of dill pickles.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle for a fun twist.

Can I make this recipe without mayo?

You can substitute mayo with plain Greek yogurt or use a vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free option.

How can I add protein to this salad?

You can add diced chicken, ham, crispy bacon, or even chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein option.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze macaroni salad as the texture of the pasta and veggies may change once thawed.

What’s the best way to serve this?

Serve chilled alongside BBQs, picnics, potlucks, or as a meal on its own. Garnish with extra pickles or dill for an extra touch.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

You can use yellow mustard, whole grain mustard, or spicy mustard in place of Dijon if you prefer. Each type of mustard will give a slightly different flavor profile.

How long can I store this salad in the fridge?

You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.

What can I serve this macaroni salad with?

It’s perfect alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, BBQ meats, or even as a refreshing side dish for a brunch spread.

Conclusion

Classic Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad brings together tangy pickles, creamy dressing, and a delightful crunch, making it a standout dish at any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer BBQ or packing it for a picnic, this salad is sure to be a crowd favorite. Try out different variations and serving ideas to keep this dish fresh all year long!