Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta salad. It’s creamy, refreshing, and packed with layers of flavor that make every bite an absolute joy. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, preparing a side dish for a family dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, pasta salad is one of those dishes that always hits the spot.

But today, we’re not talking about just any pasta salad. We’re talking about a Creamy Pasta Salad with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan—a luxurious, flavor-packed twist on the classic. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, garlicky dressing infused with the deep, mellow sweetness of roasted garlic and the nutty saltiness of Parmesan. Add to that a medley of crisp, fresh veggies, and you’ve got a dish that’s as delightful as it is satisfying.

This pasta salad is pure magic—it’s creamy but not heavy, flavorful but not overpowering, and easy enough to whip up without breaking a sweat. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at gatherings, leaving guests asking, “Can I get the recipe?” (Spoiler alert: Yes, you can!)

So grab a fork, and let’s dive into this incredibly delicious, ridiculously creamy, and perfectly balanced pasta salad!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Pasta Salad

If you’re a pasta lover (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this recipe will become an instant favorite. Here’s why:

• It’s the perfect balance of creamy and fresh – The dressing is rich and luxurious, but the fresh veggies add a delightful crunch and brightness.
• Roasted garlic takes it to the next level – If you’ve never roasted garlic before, you’re in for a treat! Roasting transforms it into a sweet, caramelized, almost buttery spread that melts into the dressing.
• Parmesan adds the ultimate umami kick – There’s something magical about Parmesan cheese. It’s salty, nutty, and absolutely irresistible in a creamy dressing like this one.
• It’s incredibly versatile – Want to add protein? Throw in some grilled chicken or shrimp. Need more veggies? Bell peppers, peas, or even roasted red peppers would be fantastic.
• It’s make-ahead friendly – The flavors actually get better as it sits in the fridge, making it a perfect dish for meal prep or parties.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Garlic:

• 1 whole head of garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• A pinch of salt

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (for a subtle sweetness)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Pasta Salad:

• 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work beautifully)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup crispy bacon bits (optional, but highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Take a whole head of garlic and slice off the top to expose the cloves.
3. Drizzle the exposed garlic with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
4. Wrap it in foil and roast for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes, then squeeze the soft, roasted garlic cloves into a small bowl and mash into a smooth paste.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
2. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Dreamy, Creamy Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • The mashed roasted garlic
   • Mayonnaise
   • Sour cream
   • Olive oil
   • Grated Parmesan
   • Dijon mustard
   • Lemon juice
   • Honey
   • Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes
2. Whisk until smooth, creamy, and completely irresistible.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad

1. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to coat each piece in that luscious, garlicky goodness.
2. Gently fold in:
   • Cherry tomatoes
   • Diced cucumber
   • Finely chopped red onion
   • Fresh parsley
   • Crispy bacon bits (if using)
3. Mix until everything is evenly coated and looking absolutely delicious.

Step 5: Chill, Serve, and Enjoy Every Bite

1. Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (trust me, this makes a difference!).
2. Before serving, give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.
3. Garnish with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil for that final touch of perfection.

Pro Tips for the Best Pasta Salad of Your Life

• Freshly grated Parmesan is a must – The pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t melt the same way!
• Let it sit before serving – The flavors blend and deepen, making it even more delicious.
• Use the right pasta shape – Rotini, bowtie, or penne hold onto the creamy dressing beautifully.
• Make it your own – Swap veggies, add grilled chicken, or throw in some olives for a Mediterranean twist!

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for BBQs – Serve alongside grilled steak, burgers, or chicken.
• A Hearty Lunch – Enjoy on its own for a satisfying, protein-packed meal.
• With Garlic Bread – Because more garlic is always a good idea.
• Topped with Crunch – Sprinkle on toasted pine nuts or croutons for added texture.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• If the dressing thickens, add a splash of olive oil before serving to refresh it.
• Avoid freezing—the creamy dressing doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

The Bottom Line:

This Creamy Pasta Salad with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan is about to become your new favorite go-to dish. It’s bold, creamy, fresh, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a big gathering, this pasta salad will steal the show.

FAQs

Also Read:

19 Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings