Some recipes come and go with the seasons, but this Layered Pasta Salad is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its bold colors, irresistible textures, and creamy homemade dressing, this dish isn’t just food — it’s a centerpiece.

Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, family reunions, or church picnics, it combines everything we love about summer in one big, beautiful bowl: crisp vegetables, hearty pasta, savory ham, and tangy cheddar cheese, all brought together by a rich and zesty dressing. And thanks to its layered presentation, it looks just as good as it tastes.

Whether you’re making it for a crowd or simply want a dish that holds up in the fridge for days, this salad delivers big on flavor and presentation. Let’s walk through exactly how to make it.

What Makes This Layered Pasta Salad So Special?
First off, the layers aren’t just for looks — they serve a purpose. By keeping certain ingredients separate until serving, you preserve texture and freshness while also allowing the dressing to slowly seep downward and flavor the entire bowl over time.

Second, this is a complete meal in a bowl — carbs, protein, veggies, and dairy all in one. It’s as satisfying as a casserole but served cold and fresh.

Third, it’s endlessly adaptable. Don’t like olives? Leave them out. Prefer bacon to ham? Make the swap. Want to use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? No problem. But start with this base recipe, and you’ll understand why so many people come back to it year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise
¾ cup sour cream
2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad Layers:
3 cups macaroni pasta, cooked, drained, and cooled
3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
½ red bell pepper, finely diced
¼ cup red onion, minced
½ cup frozen green peas, thawed (no cooking needed)
⅓ cup chopped celery
1½ cups diced ham (use good-quality cooked ham or leftovers)