Name: Creamy 4 Ingredient Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 200 g (7 oz) small pasta (shells, elbows, or similar); 1 cup cooked sweet corn (canned or frozen and thawed); 1 cup diced ham; ½ cup mayonnaise

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Introduction

Looking for a delicious, fuss-free pasta dish that everyone will love? This creamy 4 ingredient pasta salad is the answer! With only a handful of simple recipe staples, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing side dish in under 40 minutes.

No fancy chopping or cooking skills required—just cook the pasta, toss, chill, and enjoy. If you need a quick salad for a picnic, barbecue, or lunch, this creamy pasta is easy to make and always hits the spot.

Thinking about dinner or a quick lunch? Jump to recipe for the easiest creamy pasta salad you’ll ever try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy: Minimal prep—just cook the pasta and mix everything in one bowl.
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients pasta you likely have on hand.
Kid-approved: Creamy, mild flavors and fun pasta shapes please even picky eaters.
Versatile: Enjoy as a side, a light lunch, or your go-to picnic pasta dish.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pasta (200g):

Small pasta shapes like shells, elbows, or bowties work best. Be sure to cook the pasta to al dente—this helps it hold its shape and keeps your salad from turning mushy.

Sweet corn (1 cup):

Use canned or frozen (thawed) corn. The sweetness is the perfect balance to savory ham and creamy dressing.

Diced ham (1 cup):

Adds a hearty, savory element. Try turkey or chicken as a tasty swap, or leave it out for a vegetarian twist.

Mayonnaise (1/2 cup):

The key to the creamy pasta texture! Use regular or light mayo, or swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter bite. Add a dash of lemon juice for brightness or a drizzle of olive oil for extra silkiness.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta shapes and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, then rinse under cold water to cool quickly.
Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sweet corn, and diced ham. Now’s the perfect moment to toss in extras like chopped bell pepper if you’d like to add more veggies.
Add the Dressing:
Spoon in the mayonnaise and mix until everything is well coated. For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dash of black pepper.
Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate your creamy pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets the flavors meld and gives the dish the perfect texture.
Enjoy:
Serve cold as a satisfying side dish or a light pasta lunch.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook: Aim for al dente when cooking your pasta—overcooked pasta shapes will break apart when mixing.
Customize: Add parmesan cheese, black pepper, or even a bit of Italian dressing for a flavor upgrade.
Make ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep; store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Salt and pepper: Taste before serving and add salt and pepper as needed.
Affiliate links: If you love kitchen gadgets, check out our affiliate links for recommended pasta pots and salad bowls!

Tasty Variations

Cheesy Twist: Add 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese or mozzarella.
Veggie Boost: Mix in diced bell pepper, peas, or chopped cucumber.
Zesty Flavor: Swap mayo for Italian dressing, or add lemon juice and black pepper.
Protein Swap: Use diced grilled chicken, canned tuna, or turkey instead of ham.
Lighter Option: Replace half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt or a splash of olive oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just stir before serving.

How long does it keep?

Covered in the fridge, this pasta salad keeps for up to 2 days. If it looks dry, add a bit more mayo or a splash of olive oil before serving.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Definitely! Try bowties, rotini, macaroni, or any pasta shapes you love.

Is it possible to freeze this salad?

This creamy pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh, as mayonnaise-based dressings can separate after freezing.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Leave out the ham or add extra veggies or cubed cheese.

How do I give it more flavor?

Try adding chopped herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of black pepper or parmesan cheese.

Does this recipe work for a gluten-free diet?

Use gluten-free pasta to make this pasta dish celiac-friendly.

What other add-ins work?

Try olives, diced pickles, or a spoonful of Italian dressing for more tang.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes! Prep in advance and keep it chilled for quick lunches or sides.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Rinse with cold water after cooking and toss with a little olive oil if needed.

Bowl of creamy 4 ingredient pasta salad with corn, ham, and mayonnaise, garnished with parsley and black pepper

Conclusion

This creamy 4-ingredient pasta salad is proof that a simple recipe can be incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and your favorite pasta shapes, you can whip up a tasty side dish in less than 20 minutes.

This creamy pasta is great for just about anything, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a busy weeknight, or meal prepping for the week.

Give it a try and see how fast everyone finishes it!