Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a Southern classic, combining the creamy, tangy goodness of pimento cheese with the comforting texture of pasta. Imagine biting into a bowl filled with tender short pasta, enveloped in a luscious pimento cheese dressing that brings out flavors of sharp cheddar and smoky paprika. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing, making it an instant favorite for picnics, potlucks, or simply a satisfying midday meal.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a sun-drenched backyard gathering, where it quickly disappeared from the bowl. Its delectable combination of flavors drew everyone back for more, and I realized how quickly it could turn a simple pasta salad into something really special. With its creamy texture and delightful hints of spice, Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad will charm your taste buds without seemingly trying. If you’re on the lookout for an easy, budget-friendly dish that wins over crowds, this is the one to try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this salad is perfect for when you want something delicious without spending all day cooking.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy mayo, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright red pimento and fresh chives make this salad as visually appealing as it is tasty, perfect for serving guests.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a side dish at barbecues or as a main dish on its own—either way, it’s always a hit!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta, this dish fits a variety of dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 oz. uncooked short pasta: Any short pasta, like elbows or shells, works wonderfully here. It’s easy to eat and holds the dressing well.
2/3 cup mayonnaise: A rich, creamy base that gives the salad its signature texture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard: This adds a delightful tanginess and depth to the dressing. Yellow mustard can be used in a pinch.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: A splash of umami flavor that enhances all the other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Just enough to give it a gentle, savory kick. You can also use freshly minced garlic if you prefer.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness that perfectly complements the cheese and bacon.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, providing richness and depth. Feel free to mix in other cheese varieties for added flair.
1/2 cup diced red onion: Adds a crunchy bite and a touch of sweetness. You can substitute green onions for a milder flavor.
1 (4-oz.) jar diced pimento peppers, drained: The sweet, vibrant pepper pieces bring color and a touch of sweetness to the salad.
8 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled, and divided: Crispy bacon adds texture and a savory crunch that everybody loves.
1 Tablespoon chopped fresh chives: For a fresh, herby finish, chives add a delightful pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz. uncooked short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika until it’s fully combined and creamy.
Combine the Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the dressing along with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup diced red onion, and the drained jar of pimento peppers.
Add the Bacon: Crumble 8 slices of cooked bacon into the mixture, reserving a few pieces for garnish. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
Taste & Adjust: Give the salad a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add salt, pepper, or extra paprika if desired!
Chill & Serve: For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped chives and reserved bacon for an added touch.

Storing & Reheating

Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it for longer, consider freezing it; however, the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve leftovers, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy cold. You may want to add a little extra mayonnaise or cheese to refresh the flavor and creaminess after freezing.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is best for a firm texture that holds up in the salad.
Use freshly grated cheddar for the best flavor and texture compared to pre-shredded versions, which often have anti-caking agents.
Feel free to play around with the ingredients! Substitute the bacon for a plant-based option or use a different type of cheese for variety.
If you’re prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and colorful appearance, Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad will quickly become a beloved dish in your household. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Experiment with adding your favorite veggies or proteins, and enjoy the joyful experience of bringing everyone together over this rich, delicious salad.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad a day in advance can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge, and consider adding a dash more mayonnaise before serving to restore creaminess.

What can I substitute for the bacon?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, crispy chickpeas or smoked tofu can mimic bacon’s crunch and flavor. Alternatively, you can leave it out entirely for a lighter version.

Is this salad gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a simple switch!

How long will the pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad will stay fresh for about 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just keep an eye on the texture, as it might soften over time.

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Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

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Description

Pimento Cheese Pasta Salad is a mouthwatering blend of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and vibrant veggies. With easy prep and bold flavors, it’s ideal for quick dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

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12 oz. uncooked short pasta
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced red onion
1 (4-oz.) jar diced pimento peppers, drained
8 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled and divided
1 Tablespoon chopped fresh chives

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta then rinse it with cold water to remove excess starch. Drain it thoroughly again and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, red onions, and pimento peppers. Then add the pasta and half of the crumbled bacon.
Top the pasta salad with the remaining crumbled bacon and chopped chives. Serve fresh.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or celery.
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste.
This salad can be made a day ahead for the flavors to meld.