Tangy and creamy pasta salad with bacon, dill pickles, cheddar, and a flavorful dressing.
12 ounces rotini pasta
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup dill pickles, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons pickle juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
Cook bacon until crispy, drain, and crumble.
Dice pickles, celery, and red onion.
Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine pasta, bacon, pickles, vegetables, and cheese. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
Sprinkle dill and optional smoked paprika; chill at least 30 minutes before serving.
Avoid overmixing to maintain crisp textures. Adjust pickle juice and seasoning to taste.