Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe with Ham and Pineapple

There’s something undeniably comforting about a good pasta salad—especially one that strikes the perfect harmony between creamy, savory, and sweet. Enter this Creamy Pasta Salad with Ham and Pineapple, a dish that’s not just a recipe but a ticket to a world of flavors and textures that dance together beautifully in every single bite. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a potluck, or simply a laid-back family dinner, this pasta salad will be the undisputed star of the table. It’s vibrant, it’s delicious, and best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make!

Imagine tender pasta swirled in a rich, silky dressing, punctuated by juicy bursts of pineapple, smoky bites of ham, crisp bell peppers, and the gentle crunch of celery. The flavors? Absolutely addictive. The textures? A delightful contrast of creamy and crisp. Every spoonful is a playful mix of sweet and salty, tangy and savory, creamy and refreshing—exactly what makes a dish unforgettable. If you’re a fan of balanced flavors that keep you coming back for more, this pasta salad will have you hooked at first bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The combination of sweet pineapple, salty ham, and a creamy dressing creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy & Quick to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a quick chill in the fridge make this a go-to dish for busy days.
• A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite – Whether at a picnic, potluck, or family dinner, this pasta salad always disappears fast.
• Versatile & Customizable – You can tweak the ingredients to match your preferences and still get a fantastic result.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or macaroni work best)
• 1 ½ cups diced ham
• 1 cup canned pineapple chunks (drained)
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup celery, diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step-1. Cook the Pasta to Perfection:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente—firm yet tender to the bite. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.

Step2. Chop & Prep the Ingredients:

While the pasta cools, dice the ham into bite-sized cubes, finely chop the bell peppers, red onion, and celery, and drain the pineapple chunks thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the salad.

Step-3. Whip Up the Creamy Dressing:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth, creamy, and irresistibly velvety.

Step-4. Combine the Ingredients:

In a large salad bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, diced ham, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, red onion, celery, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently so that everything is evenly distributed.

Step-5. Dress It Up!:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat every piece with that luscious, creamy goodness. Be careful not to overmix—just enough to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step-6. Let the Flavors Mingle:

Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or longer if possible) to let the flavors meld beautifully. The wait is worth it!

Step-7. Serve & Enjoy:

When ready to serve, give the salad a final gentle toss, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and get ready for compliments!

Pro Tips for Pasta Salad Perfection

• Choose the Right Pasta – Rotini, penne, or macaroni hold onto the dressing best for maximum flavor.
• Drain the Pineapple Well – Excess juice can water down the dressing, so be sure it’s properly drained.
• Let It Chill – Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge enhances the flavors and makes it even tastier.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Slightly firm pasta (al dente) prevents it from becoming mushy in the salad.
• Reserve Some Dressing – If making ahead, save a little dressing to mix in before serving to keep it extra creamy.

Creative Variations

• Swap the Ham – Try cooked chicken, turkey, or crispy bacon for a different twist.
• Lighten It Up – Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier alternative.
• Crunch It Up – Add toasted almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
• Add a Kick – A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can spice things up.
• Sweeten It Further – Toss in grapes, raisins, or dried cranberries for a burst of natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a refreshing side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. It’s also perfect alongside juicy burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches at your next barbecue. Or simply enjoy it on its own for a light, satisfying meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Properly – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
• Avoid Freezing – Mayo-based dressings don’t freeze well and can separate when thawed.
• Freshen It Up – If the salad looks a little dry after refrigeration, add a touch of extra dressing and mix well before serving.

The Bottom Line:

This Creamy Pasta Salad with Ham and Pineapple is a true winner—easy, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard gathering, packing it for lunch, or making it ahead for a quick weeknight meal, it’s sure to be a favorite. Give it a try, and get ready for a dish that’s as delightful as it is delicious!

FAQs

Also Read:

19 Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings