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French Onion Dip Pasta Salad

Category: Fresh & Vibrant Salads

French onion dip pasta salad brings together tender pasta, caramelized onions, and a creamy dressing reminiscent of classic French onion dip. Rich sour cream and tangy herbs blend with golden onions, coating rotini or macaroni for deep flavor in every bite. This salad is perfect served cold or at room temperature, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for potlucks, cookouts, or easy weeknight sides. Enjoy the savory notes of sweet onions and fresh parsley, with just enough crunch from celery and green onions. Simple to prepare and sure to impress any crowd, it's a comforting addition to any meal.

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Updated on Fri, 23 May 2025 17:46:59 GMT
A bowl of pasta salad with onions. Pin
A bowl of pasta salad with onions. | applefoodie.com

A classic French onion dip transformed into a creamy crowd-pleasing pasta salad makes any potluck or picnic table instantly brighter. All the irresistible savory notes of caramelized onion blend into a tangy deluxe dressing that wraps every bite of pasta and crisp veggie. This is the side that vanishes first at gatherings.

I first created this after craving both onion dip and a comfort meal during a summer cookout. It is now my bring-to-every-birthday favorite and always gets recipe requests.

Ingredients

  • short pasta shells or rotini pasta: The classic shape holds onto the creamy dressing perfectly Use a quality brand for best texture
  • yellow onions: Key for that signature sweet savory flavor Look for ones with shiny papery skins and no soft spots
  • mayonnaise and sour cream: The dreamy base for richness and tang Go full fat for the creamiest result
  • Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle zesty kick and depth Choose a classic French variety if possible
  • white wine vinegar: Hits just the right note of brightness Taste before adding more
  • fresh chives or scallions: Brightens and echoes the classic dip Use fresh and chop right before serving
  • grated sharp cheddar cheese: For extra umami Pick a block and shred it yourself for best melt
  • celery and red bell pepper: Crisp texture and color Choose firm and glossy vegetables
  • garlic powder and onion powder: Heightens the dip flavor Check that your spices are vibrant and aromatic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Onions:
Caramelize chopped yellow onions slowly over medium-low heat with a splash of oil Stir constantly for about 15 minutes to develop deep sweetness and golden color
Cook the Pasta:
Boil your short pasta shells in generously salted water until just al dente Drain and rinse briefly to stop the cooking
Mix the Dressing:
Whisk together mayonnaise sour cream Dijon mustard white wine vinegar garlic powder and onion powder in a large mixing bowl Taste and adjust the acidity or seasoning
Combine and Toss:
Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the dressing Add celery red bell pepper chopped chives and shredded cheddar Stir in the cooked pasta until evenly coated
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour so the flavors meld Garnish with extra chives before serving
A bowl of French onion pasta salad. Pin
A bowl of French onion pasta salad. | applefoodie.com

My favorite ingredient in this pasta salad has to be the caramelized onions Nothing compares to the rich jammy flavor they bring The first time I simmered onions this slowly for a salad my whole kitchen smelled incredible and now it is my sign that a party is coming

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If the dressing thickens too much just stir in a splash of milk or a dollop of mayo before serving again

Ingredient Swaps

You can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for more tang or use vegan mayo to make it dairy free For extra crunch try diced cucumber or swap cheddar cheese with crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or veggie burgers and holds up well on buffet tables I love to fill lettuce cups with it for easy summer bites

A bowl of French onion pasta salad. Pin
A bowl of French onion pasta salad. | applefoodie.com

A Little French Inspiration

Inspired by the classic French onion dip found at every American party this salad captures the same combination of creamy tang with sweet onions and lots of fresh herbs The method of slow caramelizing honors the French respect for deepening flavor and makes every bite memorable

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I achieve a rich onion flavor?

Slowly caramelize the onions until golden and sweet; this builds the dip's signature flavor in the salad.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short, sturdy shapes like rotini, penne, or macaroni hold the creamy dressing and toppings well.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Flavors deepen as the salad sits, making it even better.

→ Are there suitable vegetarian options for this salad?

Absolutely—this dish is naturally vegetarian as long as you use vegetable-based broth or stock.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.

French Onion Dip Pasta Salad

Pasta salad tossed with creamy French onion dip flavors and crisp veggies—perfect for a party or picnic.

Preparation Time
20 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
35 min
By: Ava

Category: Salads

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Serves (12 cups)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Pasta Salad

01 450 g short pasta, such as fusilli or penne
02 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
03 15 ml olive oil
04 240 g sour cream
05 120 g mayonnaise
06 60 ml whole milk
07 30 g finely chopped chives
08 120 g shredded cheddar cheese
09 60 g finely chopped fresh parsley
10 2 g garlic powder
11 2 g onion powder
12 3 g fine sea salt
13 1.5 g freshly ground black pepper

Steps

Step 01

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 02

Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 03

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized and deeply golden brown, about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 04

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 05

Add cooled pasta, caramelized onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley to the dressing. Toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 06

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Notes & Tips

  1. Toss the salad just before serving for best texture and flavor.
  2. For extra flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow the onions and dressing to penetrate the pasta.

Necessary Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Allergy Information

Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
  • Contains milk and eggs
  • Contains wheat gluten

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice.
  • Calories: 219
  • Fats: 6.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33.5 g
  • Proteins: 7.5 g