Creamy Dill-Brine Macaroni Salad

This Creamy Dill-Brine Macaroni Salad takes the bright, tangy flavors of pickle brine and fresh dill and pairs them with tender pasta, crisp veggies, and a luscious, creamy dressing. Each bite delivers a refreshing contrast — cool, herby creaminess balanced by the gentle zing of brine — making it the ultimate side dish for summer picnics, BBQs, or potluck spreads.

Al dente macaroni is tossed with crunchy celery, sweet onion, and diced dill pickles, then folded into a dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle brine, and fresh herbs. The result is a chilled salad that’s bold in flavor yet comforting and familiar, perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients (Serves 8)

For the Salad:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and cooled

  • 1 cup diced dill pickles

  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped

  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped

  • ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • ¼ cup dill pickle brine (from the jar)

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 tsp sugar

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.

Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle brine, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Add the Veggies & Herbs
Stir in diced pickles, celery, red onion, and fresh dill until evenly distributed.

Combine
Add cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture and fold gently until pasta is fully coated.

Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold, garnished with extra dill if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Calories: ~310 kcal per serving
Servings: 8

The Origin of Creamy Dill-Brine Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad has been a staple of American picnic tables for generations, evolving from simple mayo-and-pasta combinations into creative, flavor-packed variations. This dill-brine version nods to classic deli-style salads but adds the bright, tangy punch of pickle juice, a trick beloved by home cooks for decades. Fresh dill and crunchy pickles make it especially summery, while the creamy dressing keeps it grounded in comfort food tradition.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Flavor Balance: The brine cuts through the richness of the mayo, creating a tangy, refreshing bite.

  • Texture Play: Tender pasta, crisp veggies, and juicy pickles keep every mouthful interesting.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavor deepens after chilling, so it’s even better the next day.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Salt the pasta water well — it’s your only chance to season the macaroni itself.

  • Use high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.

  • Let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations

  • Egg Lover’s Twist: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.

  • Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

  • Herb Swap: Replace dill with parsley or chives for a milder herbal note.

Make Ahead & Storage

  • Make Ahead: Can be made up to 24 hours in advance — in fact, it tastes better after sitting overnight.

  • Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days.

  • Freezer: Not recommended; the creamy dressing will separate.

Serving Ideas
Serve with:

  • Grilled burgers or hot dogs for a classic BBQ plate

  • Crispy fried chicken for a picnic feast

  • Fresh watermelon wedges for a sweet counterpoint

Final Thoughts

Creamy Dill-Brine Macaroni Salad is everything you want in a summer side: tangy, fresh, creamy, and satisfying. It’s versatile enough for casual cookouts or more formal gatherings, and it’s the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for seconds. Keep it chilled, keep it plentiful, and watch it disappear from the table before the main course is even gone.