Macaroni Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Macaroni Salad is a classic and comforting side dish made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick lunch, this salad is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Its chilled, refreshing quality makes it a favorite during warm weather gatherings.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
mayonnaise
apple cider vinegar
yellow mustard
sugar
salt
black pepper
celery
red onion
bell pepper
carrots
hard-boiled eggs (optional)

directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.

Fold in chopped celery, red onion, bell pepper, carrots, and chopped hard-boiled eggs if using.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

Give it a gentle stir before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, lighter dressing.
Add pickles or relish for extra zest.
Swap elbow macaroni with rotini or shell pasta.
Include shredded cheese or diced ham for a heartier version.

storage/reheating

Store macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze as the texture of the pasta and dressing may change.
Serve cold; reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made ahead to allow flavors to develop.

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely, just ensure it’s a small, short pasta.

Is macaroni salad served cold?
Yes, it is traditionally served chilled.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Yes, diced chicken, ham, or tuna are great additions.

Why is my salad dry the next day?
Pasta absorbs dressing over time; add a bit more mayo or a splash of milk before serving.

How do I keep pasta from sticking?
Rinse it in cold water and toss with a little oil before mixing.

What veggies can I add?
Peas, corn, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes work well.

Can I make it spicy?
Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Can I use vegan mayo?
Yes, plant-based mayo works perfectly.

Is this kid-friendly?
Very much so—creamy, mild, and colorful.

Conclusion

Macaroni Salad is a beloved dish that’s easy to whip up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its creamy texture and crisp vegetables make it a refreshing side for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with add-ins, this salad is a dependable go-to in your culinary lineup.

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