Go Back
Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad Recipe

Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad Recipe

Creamy, tangy macaroni salad packed with crunchy dill pickles, celery, and cheddar. A perfect make-ahead side for picnics and potlucks.
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 0.75 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.33 cup sour cream
  • 0.25 cup pickle brine from the jar
  • 1.5 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp granulated sugar
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1.25 cup chopped dill pickles drained, small dice
  • 0.75 cup diced celery
  • 0.5 cup minced red onion
  • 0.75 cup cheddar cheese, small cubes
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika optional, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, 7–9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cool water.
  • Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle brine, Dijon, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  • Stir in the chopped pickles, celery, red onion, cheddar, and fresh dill.
  • Fold in the cooled macaroni until everything is coated and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Chill 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld. Dust with paprika before serving.

Notes

Stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs or crisp bacon for a heartier salad. For extra tang, swap half the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. Make it ahead—flavors improve as it rests; store covered in the fridge up to 3 days.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.