Looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s creamy, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make? This Classic Macaroni Salad is the ultimate recipe you’ll turn to all summer long.
I’ve always had a soft spot for macaroni salad—it was a staple at every family gathering growing up.
My mom had a go-to recipe that she made with love and just the right balance of creamy and tangy flavors.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked it slightly, adding some extra crunch and flavor, but it still carries the comfort and nostalgia of those sunny backyard meals.
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, simple yet satisfying every single time.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in about 30 minutes and requires just basic kitchen tools.
- Customizable: Add or skip ingredients based on what you have in your fridge.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for BBQs, picnics, parties, or even a simple lunchbox option.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Cuisines: American
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: $6-$8
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula or spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles or relish
- 2 boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Chop Veggies: While the pasta cools, dice bell pepper, celery, red onion, and pickles.
- Combine Everything: Add cooled macaroni to the dressing, then fold in the chopped veggies and eggs (if using). Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve cold.
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving – estimated)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
Tips for Success
- Rinse Pasta with Cold Water: This stops the cooking process and prevents the salad from getting mushy.
- Use Full-Fat Mayo: It gives a richer and creamier dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: At least 1 hour of chilling helps the flavors combine better.
- Dice Veggies Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure a good mix of texture and flavor in every bite.
Creamy Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped pickles or relish
- 2 boiled eggs chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Chop Veggies: While the pasta cools, dice bell pepper, celery, red onion, and pickles.
- Combine Everything: Add cooled macaroni to the dressing, then fold in the chopped veggies and eggs (if using). Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve cold.
Notes
- Rinse Pasta with Cold Water: This stops the cooking process and prevents the salad from getting mushy.
- Use Full-Fat Mayo: It gives a richer and creamier dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: At least 1 hour of chilling helps the flavors combine better.
- Dice Veggies Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure a good mix of texture and flavor in every bite.
Common Questions
Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better after being chilled for a few hours or even overnight.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving again.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Small shells, ditalini, or rotini work well too.
How do I make it healthier?
Use light mayo or Greek yogurt, and load up on extra veggies for a lighter twist.
Hope you enjoy this creamy, crunchy, nostalgic bowl of macaroni salad with your loved ones.
Whether it’s part of a summer cookout or a quick lunch at home, this dish is sure to brighten your table.
Happy cooking!
