Save This creamy pickle and cheddar loaded potato pasta combines two comfort food favorites into one extraordinary dish. The tangy pickles cut through the rich cheese sauce while tender potato chunks add heartiness to every bite. It's the perfect weeknight dinner when you're craving something different yet familiar.
I created this recipe during a particularly cold winter when I was craving both loaded baked potatoes and mac and cheese. My family was skeptical about the pickle addition at first but now they specifically request the pickle pasta whenever comfort food is on the menu.
Ingredients
- Yukon Gold potatoes: create the perfect creamy texture and hold their shape during cooking
- Short pasta like penne or fusilli: catches all the delicious sauce in its ridges and curves
- Sharp cheddar cheese: provides the strongest flavor punch and melts beautifully
- Dill pickles: add the perfect tangy contrast to the rich cheese sauce
- Pickle brine: enhances the flavor throughout the sauce without adding extra liquid
- Dijon mustard: deepens the cheese flavor and complements the pickles perfectly
- Garlic powder: adds savory notes without overpowering the dish
- Green onions: bring fresh color and mild onion flavor to finish the dish
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato and Pasta Base:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous tablespoon of salt. Add the diced potatoes first since they need a head start. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften but still hold their shape. Add the pasta to the same pot and continue cooking until both pasta and potatoes are tender. This one pot method infuses the pasta with potato starch making for an even creamier final dish.
- Create the Cheese Sauce:
- While the pasta and potatoes cook start your sauce by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted whisk in the flour to create a roux cooking for exactly one minute while stirring constantly. The mixture should look like wet sand and smell slightly nutty but not brown. Gradually add the milk in a steady stream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Develop the Flavors:
- Reduce the heat to low before adding the shredded cheddar cheese. Add it gradually in handfuls stirring between additions to ensure smooth melting. Whisk in the Dijon mustard garlic powder and black pepper. These ingredients enhance the cheese flavor without overwhelming it. The sauce should be velvety smooth and rich. Now stir in the pickle brine and half of the chopped pickles allowing their tangy flavor to permeate the sauce.
- Combine and Finish:
- Drain the pasta and potatoes thoroughly then add them directly to the cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together ensuring each piece is generously coated with the creamy sauce. The hot pasta will absorb some of the sauce so if it seems too thick add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the finished pasta to serving bowls or a large serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pickles over the top along with sliced green onions and a light dusting of smoked paprika if using. The contrast of the creamy pasta with the fresh crunchy toppings creates the perfect textural balance.
Save The pickle brine is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its magic when I was low on seasonings one day and decided to add a splash from the pickle jar. The brine adds a complex tangy flavor that regular vinegar just cannot match. My grandmother actually used to add a splash of pickle juice to her potato salad which inspired this unconventional addition.
Storage Tips
This pasta keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight making leftovers sometimes even more delicious than the fresh dish. When reheating add a splash of milk and stir frequently to restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the sauce separate. Instead reheat gently on the stovetop over medium low heat.
Creative Variations
This versatile base recipe welcomes many delicious additions. For a protein boost fold in shredded rotisserie chicken bacon bits or smoked ham just before serving. Vegetable lovers can add steamed broccoli florets peas or roasted bell peppers. For a spicy version mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can even transform it into a complete one pot meal by adding sautéed mushrooms and spinach during the final combining step.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare components of this dish in advance to make weeknight assembly even quicker. Dice the potatoes up to a day ahead and store them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. The cheese sauce can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container. When ready to serve simply cook the pasta and potatoes then reheat the sauce gently before combining. Add an extra splash of milk when reheating the sauce to maintain its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta works beautifully as a main dish served with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a more substantial meal pair it with grilled sausages or roasted chicken thighs. It also makes an excellent side dish alongside meatloaf or grilled vegetables. For casual gatherings serve it in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until golden and bubbly.
Save Enjoy this flavorful and comforting pasta dish!
Recipe FAQ
- → Which pasta shape works best in this dish?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and combine easily with the potatoes.
- → Should potatoes be cooked with the pasta?
Yes, add diced potatoes to boiling water first, then pasta, ensuring both reach the perfect tenderness together.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Sharp cheddar offers a strong flavor, but Monterey Jack or a touch of cream cheese can be used for a milder or richer profile.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for thickening the sauce.
- → How do pickles influence the flavor profile?
Dill pickles and a splash of brine provide a tangy crunch, balancing the richness of the cheese and creamy base.
- → What garnishes work well?
Top with extra pickles, fresh green onions, crispy fried onions, and smoked paprika for added flavor and texture.