Creamy Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad 🌶️🥗🧀

A creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy twist on pasta salad—perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or cozy nights in!

Ingredients

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook Pasta: Boil rotini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Make Creamy Base: In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
3. Add Flavor: Stir in cheddar cheese, jalapeños, red bell pepper, and green onions.
4. Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Combine: Gently fold in cooled pasta until evenly coated.
6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
7. Serve: Enjoy chilled as a side or main dish.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

Tip: Add crispy bacon bits for an extra popper-inspired crunch!