Easy Macaroni Salad
There’s nothing quite like a creamy, refreshing macaroni salad to bring a little joy to the table, especially during summer gatherings. In our household, this dish has become a staple—not just for BBQs, but for picnics, potlucks, and even quick weekday dinners. I first made this macaroni salad years ago, searching for a side dish that was easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. After a few tweaks, I knew I had found something special. My family’s reaction sealed the deal; even my pickiest eater couldn’t resist going back for seconds!
What makes this macaroni salad so irresistible is the perfect balance of creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta. It’s a dish that satisfies everyone—even those who typically steer clear of “salad” dishes. I love how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled burgers or packing it for a picnic, it holds up beautifully and gets better as it sits.
The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make. As a busy mom, I value recipes that don’t require endless steps or exotic ingredients. This one comes together in a snap, and the result is pure comfort food. Over the years, I’ve had so many friends and family members ask for the recipe. I’m thrilled to share it with you today because I know it’ll become one of your favorites too.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
Q: Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Q: What’s the best pasta to use?
A: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can also use small shells or rotini if you prefer. Just make sure it’s a shape that holds the dressing well.
Q: Can I add or swap out ingredients?
A: Of course! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, swap the cheddar for mozzarella, or add a protein like diced ham or shredded chicken.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for 3-4 days.
Q: Is it okay to use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
A: Sure! It’ll give the salad a tangier flavor, so adjust the seasonings to taste.
What You Need to Make Creamy Macaroni Salad:
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup chopped celery
¼ cup diced red onion
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Tools:
Large mixing bowl
Medium saucepan for boiling pasta
Cutting board and knife
How to Make Creamy Macaroni Salad:
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Mix the Salad: Add the cooked pasta, diced bell pepper, celery, red onion, and shredded cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors develop.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Macaroni Salad:
Don’t overcook the pasta. Slightly undercooked pasta will hold up better after mixing with the dressing.
Rinse the pasta well. This stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, preventing the salad from becoming sticky.
Customize to taste. Add a pinch of paprika for color or swap out the veggies for your favorites.
Go light on the salt at first. Some cheeses and mayo brands are saltier than others; adjust after tasting.
Latest Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was a hit at our family BBQ! I loved how creamy and flavorful it was. Definitely making this again.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I’ll add a little more mustard next time for an extra kick.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy weeknights! I made it ahead, and my kids devoured it.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good, but I found it a bit too sweet for my taste. I’ll skip the sugar next time.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Absolutely loved it! So easy to make and so versatile. I added diced ham, and it was perfect.”
Printable Recipe:
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Easy Macaroni Salad
Creamy Macaroni Salad is a quick, flavorful side dish perfect for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. With a tangy, creamy dressing and crunchy veggies, it’s a family favorite that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan for boiling pasta
- Cutting board and knife
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix the Salad: Add the cooked pasta, diced bell pepper, celery, red onion, and shredded cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors develop.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
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