This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish packed with fresh broccoli, creamy cheddar, and pasta. It’s perfect as a side or a light meal!
You can whip this salad up in no time, making it great for picnics or lunch at home. I love how the cheese gets all melty and cozy with the pasta. Who doesn’t love cheese? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is a classic choice for pasta salad, but you can use any small pasta like rotini or penne. These shapes hold the dressing well, making every bite flavorful.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are great, but frozen ones work just as well. They are pre-cut and convenient. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, feel free to substitute with cauliflower or peas for a different taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a creamier texture. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re dairy-free.
Red Onion: Diced red onion gives a nice crunch and color, but you can swap it for green onions or even shallots for a milder flavor. If onions aren’t your thing, skip them completely.
Dressing: The mix of mayonnaise and sour cream keeps the salad creamy. You can replace mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or skip the sour cream altogether if you prefer a simpler dressing.
How Do I Properly Prepare the Pasta for My Salad?
Cooking pasta right is crucial for a good salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente—this means it’ll be firm, not mushy.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool it down quickly.
- Make sure the pasta is well-drained so the salad doesn’t get watery. A colander works great for this!
Cooking it just right makes sure your pasta salad has a nice texture and is enjoyable to eat! You want the pasta to be the perfect stage for all those tasty ingredients.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad (Walmart Copycat Recipe)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or any small pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup diced ham (optional)
For The Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll enjoy mixing flavors and textures in no time, and then all you need is a little patience as it cools down. Perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This helps prevent it from getting mushy. Set the pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix In The Veggies and Ham:
Next, add the broccoli florets, diced red onion, and diced ham (if you are using it) to the bowl with the pasta. Gently stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the dressing is smooth and well blended. This dressing is what brings the salad to life!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. You should see a nice, creamy coating on all the pasta and veggies.
5. Add the Cheddar:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed. If you want to save a little cheese for garnishing later, set aside a handful for topping before mixing.
6. Chill Out:
Cover the pasta salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This is important as it lets the flavors meld beautifully together. Enjoy the anticipation while you wait!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, pull the salad out of the fridge. If you’d like, top with the extra shredded cheese for a nice garnish. Serve it chilled and enjoy this tasty twist on a classic side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap it for any small pasta like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking times according to the package directions for the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, use a plant-based mayonnaise and swap the shredded cheddar for a vegan cheese alternative or omit it altogether. You could also add more veggies or include some nuts for extra flavor and crunch!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta salad has thickened after sitting in the fridge, you can stir in a splash of water or extra mayonnaise to loosen it up before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies such as diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or peas for added color and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces to maintain a good balance with the pasta and dressing.
