Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad (Walmart Copycat Recipe)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces tri-colored veggie rotini pasta; 1 medium head broccoli (chopped into small florets); 1 medium red onion (diced fine); 2 cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded); 2 cups mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

By:

Marla Jennings

March 17, 2026

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad in a bowl with fresh broccoli and cheddar cheese

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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad (Walmart Copycat Recipe)

Is there anything quite like the creamy, cheesy goodness of a Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad? This dish isn’t just a vibrant side; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings together the delightful crunch of fresh broccoli, the savory richness of cheese, and the comforting embrace of pasta. Whether you’re preparing for a summer barbecue, a family picnic, or a casual weeknight dinner, this Walmart-inspired recipe is bound to become your new favorite.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why you should whip up a batch of Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad at home instead of picking it up from the store. For starters, making it yourself allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor. This budget-friendly dish is an excellent way to use up vegetables and pantry staples, plus it comes together in just a matter of minutes.

“This salad stole the show at our last get-together! The flavors blend beautifully, and it was a hit with kids and adults alike!” – Sarah, home cook

Preparing Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad (Walmart Copycat Recipe)

Creating this dish is as simple as gathering your ingredients and following a few easy steps. Here’s a brief overview of what to do:

Cook the pasta until al dente.
Prepare the vegetables while the pasta cools.
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
Whisk together the dressing and mix well before chilling.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for the perfect pasta salad:

12 ounces tri-colored veggie rotini pasta (1 box)
1 medium head broccoli (chopped into small florets)
1 medium red onion (diced fine)
2 cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded)
2 cups mayonnaise
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

For a lighter option, consider swapping regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or using a mix of both!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the directions:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-colored rotini and cook according to package directions. Add a few drops of olive oil to prevent sticking. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water until the pasta cools down. Set aside in a large bowl.
Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and chop it into small florets. Dice the red onion finely and set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with your cooled pasta, add the chopped broccoli, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until combined.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Mix the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Presenting your Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad can elevate your gathering. Serve it chilled in a colorful bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a few nuts for added crunch. Pair it with grilled chicken or serve it alongside burgers for a delightful meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your pasta salad fresh:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezable: While not ideal due to the texture, you can freeze leftovers for later use. Just remember that the creamy dressing may separate upon thawing.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, stir well and consider adding a splash of fresh dressing to revive the flavor.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Pasta Cook Time: Make sure not to overcook the pasta; you want it firm to the bite.
Chilling: Letting the salad chill for a few hours allows all the flavors to marry nicely.
Taste Test: Before serving, give it a taste! You may want to adjust the seasoning or add an extra splash of vinegar for brightness.

Creative Twists

Feel free to experiment with this pasta salad! Some variations include:

Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, bacon, or chickpeas for added richness.
Different Cheeses: Swap out mild cheddar for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even feta for a tangy twist.
Seasoning Options: Enhance flavors with garlic powder, dill, or Italian seasoning.

Common Questions

What’s the prep time for this recipe?

Prep time generally takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work, but smaller shapes like elbow macaroni or shells will be easier to serve.

Is there a way to make this salad healthier?

Yes! Swap half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, use less sugar, and add more veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.

With this easy and delightful Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad recipe, you’re set to impress. Each creamy bite is sure to leave everyone coming back for seconds!