Layered Pasta Salad

This Layered Pasta Salad is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. With colorful layers of pasta, crisp veggies, savory ham, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it delivers both flavor and visual appeal. Since it’s made ahead and chilled, it frees up time on busy entertaining days. Just toss right before serving and watch it disappear from the table!

Ingredients

Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salad:

• 3 cups cooked macaroni pasta, drained
• 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/2 cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 1/3 cup chopped celery
• 1 1/2 cups diced ham
• 1/3 cup black olives
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Whisk together mayo, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, Dijon, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
2. In a trifle bowl or clear dish, layer ingredients in this order: lettuce, pasta, peppers, red onion, peas, celery, ham, olives.
3. Spread dressing evenly over the top.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate at least 5 hours.
6. Toss just before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 10

Tips

• Use a clear bowl for the prettiest presentation so each colorful layer shows.
• Add the dressing on top rather than mixing to keep layers crisp until serving time.

FAQ

Can I make this the night before?
Yes—12 to 24 hours ahead works perfectly.

Can I swap the ham?
Turkey, chicken, or crispy bacon all make great substitutes.

Do I have to toss it before serving?
Tossing blends the flavors, but you can also serve it layered for presentation.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely—small shapes like rotini or shells work well.