Creamy Pea, Pasta & Potato Salad – A Classic Comfort Dish Everyone Loves
There are some dishes that instantly feel familiar, comforting, and irresistible, and this
Creamy Pea, Pasta & Potato Salad is one of them. Rich, cool, and bursting with texture, this salad
brings together tender peas, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a perfectly balanced creamy dressing.
It’s the kind of recipe that disappears fast at potlucks, barbecues, holidays, and family dinners.
What makes this dish truly special is its perfect harmony of flavors: sweet peas, smoky bacon,
tangy apple cider vinegar, and a silky blend of sour cream and mayonnaise. Whether you serve it as a
side dish or enjoy it as a light meal on its own, this salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients & Their Roles
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream – Adds a gentle tang and creamy richness that keeps the dressing smooth and balanced.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise – Provides structure and body to the dressing, ensuring every bite is luxuriously coated.
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of the peas and balances the savory ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar – Brings brightness and acidity, preventing the salad from tasting heavy.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (plus more to taste) – Essential for drawing out and unifying all flavors.
- 4 cups Frozen Peas, Thawed – Sweet, tender, and refreshing, peas add color, texture, and natural sweetness.
- 8 slices Bacon, Cooked & Crumbled – Smoky, salty crunch that elevates the salad into true comfort food territory.
- 1/2 Medium Red Onion, Diced – Adds sharpness and crunch, cutting through the creamy dressing beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese, Cubed Small – Rich, slightly sharp cubes that add substance and depth.
Optional additions: cooked pasta shells or cubes of boiled potatoes can be folded in to transform
this dish into a hearty pasta and potato salad hybrid.
Step-by-Step Preparation
-
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, granulated sugar,
apple cider vinegar, and salt until smooth and fully combined. -
Add the Core Ingredients:
Gently add the thawed peas, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and cubed cheddar cheese to the bowl. -
Mix Carefully:
Using a spatula or large spoon, gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated
in the creamy dressing without crushing the peas. -
Optional Pasta or Potatoes:
If desired, fold in cooked and cooled pasta or tender diced potatoes for a heartier salad. -
Chill Before Serving:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Why This Recipe Is So Loved
This salad has stood the test of time because it is:
- Quick and Easy – Minimal prep with maximum flavor.
- Perfectly Balanced – Sweet, salty, creamy, and tangy in every bite.
- Customizable – Works as a pea salad, pasta salad, or potato salad.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure peas, pasta, or potatoes are fully cooled before mixing.
- Dice Small: Smaller cheese and onion pieces distribute flavor more evenly.
- Adjust to Taste: Add extra salt or vinegar just before serving if needed.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle fresh bacon on top right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy salad alongside grilled chicken, burgers, barbecue ribs, or roasted vegetables.
It also pairs beautifully with sandwiches or as part of a holiday buffet.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pea, Pasta & Potato Salad proves that simple ingredients can create something truly unforgettable.
With its rich texture, bold flavors, and easy preparation, it’s no surprise this dish remains a
favorite across generations. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals ahead,
this recipe delivers comfort, convenience, and incredible taste every single time.
If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing salad that’s both nostalgic and timeless,
this is the recipe you’ll come back to again and again.