If you’ve ever craved a dish that wraps you in comfort while delivering fresh, vibrant flavors all at once, this Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe is your answer. It’s that perfect balance of tender pasta, velvety dressing, and the satisfying bite of hard-boiled eggs, each forkful bursting with layers of texture and taste. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it at a family dinner, or just treating yourself to something wonderful, this salad feels like a warm, nostalgic hug with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how every ingredient plays an essential role in creating that luscious taste and inviting appearance. These ingredients are staples that come together to build the creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy profile this salad is loved for.
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta of choice: Choose your favorite bite-sized pasta to soak up the dressing perfectly.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base that binds everything together with richness.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds a tangy depth and smooth texture to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a gentle kick and complexity without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Provides bright acidity to balance the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch to round out the tangy notes.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers subtle warmth and savory background flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances every element and helps marry the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, peppery spice for a bit of zing.
- 3 hard-boiled eggs (chopped): The star protein that lends creaminess and a gentle bite.
- 1 celery stalk (finely chopped): Brings fresh crunch that brightens the dish.
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped): Adds sharpness and color contrast.
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish (optional): For a sweet and tangy pop if you want an extra flavor punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): A sprinkle of herbal freshness to finish with vibrant greenery.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for an al dente texture so the noodles hold up nicely without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water right away. This cool rinse stops the cooking process and helps the pasta stay firm while preventing it from sticking together later.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is smoothly combined and you have a luscious dressing that’s perfectly balanced between tangy, creamy, and just a little hint of sweetness.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooled pasta to the dressing along with the chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish if you’re using it, and fresh parsley. Gently fold everything together with care to coat every bit of pasta with that creamy dressing without breaking the eggs into mush. The result is a harmonious blend where every bite feels fresh and thoughtfully combined.
Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover the bowl and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to chill to the perfect refreshing temperature, making it taste even more delightful.
How to Serve Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra chopped fresh parsley or even chives on top right before serving to add a burst of color and herbal brightness. For a touch of elegance, a light dusting of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation and add subtle layers of aroma.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fresh green salads, or even your favorite picnic sandwiches. Its creamy yet light profile makes it a fantastic companion to smoky, savory, or simply crisp dishes, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in clear glasses for a charming layered effect showcasing the colorful ingredients. You could also stuff it into halved avocado shells or hollowed tomatoes for a fresh, elegant presentation that’s perfect for entertaining or a picnic with a little extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen the next day, making it even more delicious.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise and sour cream dressing, freezing is not recommended for this pasta salad as it can cause separation and a change in texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold, so reheating is unnecessary. If you like, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off, allowing the flavors to open up even more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can swap in small shells, rotini, or even mini penne. Just be sure to use a bite-sized pasta that will hold the creamy dressing well.
How do I make this recipe lighter?
Try substituting Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or use a light mayonnaise. These adjustments keep the creaminess while reducing fat for a fresher take on the salad.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Additions like peas, diced bell peppers, or shredded carrots provide extra crunch, color, and nutrients. Just make sure everything is chopped small enough to blend nicely with the pasta.
What’s the best way to hard-boil eggs for this recipe?
Place eggs in boiling water for about 9-12 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool quickly. This makes peeling easier and ensures the yolks stay bright and creamy.
Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance?
Yes! In fact, making the Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe a day ahead allows all the flavors to marry beautifully, making it even more delicious when served chilled.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels both comforting and fresh, full of delightful textures and familiar flavors, you simply must try this Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table with a smile. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do.
Print
Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Pasta Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs is a classic American side dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a tasty addition to any meal. Featuring tender elbow macaroni tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, this salad is enhanced with crunchy celery, sharp red onion, and savory hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and texture. Easy to prepare and delicious served chilled, it can be made ahead and customized with additional veggies or cheese to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta of choice
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salad Mix-Ins
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth, creamy dressing.
- Combine salad ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Then fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish if using, and fresh parsley. Gently stir everything until the pasta and mix-ins are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season and chill: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge to enhance flavor.
- For added texture and variety, include peas, chopped bell peppers, or shredded cheese.
- Swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option.
