Looking for a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish? This Best Macaroni Salad recipe is a classic favorite that pairs perfectly with BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings. Loaded with crisp vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy, creamy dressing, this dish is sure to be a hit at any table. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving a crowd, this macaroni salad is a must-try!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal cooking time.
- Creamy & Flavorful: A perfectly balanced dressing with a hint of sweetness.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for BBQs, picnics, and meal prep.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors enhance as it chills in the fridge.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ingredients Breakdown
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Elbow macaroni – The perfect pasta base for soaking up flavors.
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Mayonnaise – Adds rich creaminess.
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Celery & carrot – Provide crunch and freshness.
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Hard-boiled egg – Contributes texture and a slight richness.
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Onion – Enhances flavor with a subtle bite.
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Sweet relish – Brings a touch of sweetness and tang.
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Dry mustard, salt, black pepper & paprika – Elevate the seasoning for a well-balanced taste.
Tips and Tricks:
- For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of milk or an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
- Make it Zesty: Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang.
- Add More Crunch: Toss in diced bell peppers or chopped pickles.
- Protein Boost: Mix in diced ham, shredded chicken, or extra boiled eggs.
Variations and Customizations:
- Healthier Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap macaroni for cooked cauliflower florets.
Pairing Suggestions:
- BBQ Favorites: Serve alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers.
- Picnic Essentials: Pair with sandwiches, coleslaw, or fruit salad.
- Refreshing Drinks: Enjoy with lemonade, iced tea, or a cold soda.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as mayonnaise-based dressings may separate.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prep a day in advance for even better flavor.
Popular Questions:
Can I Make This Macaroni Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
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How Do I Prevent Dry Macaroni Salad?
Stir in a little extra mayonnaise before serving to keep it creamy.
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Absolutely! Small shells, rotini, or penne work well too.
Print
The Best Macaroni Salad
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This classic macaroni salad is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion! With a blend of crunchy celery, sweet relish, and a hint of mustard, it’s a delicious side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or picnic spreads.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/3 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely minced onion (or dehydrated onion)
- 2 tbsp sweet relish
- 3/4 tsp dry ground mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
- Dash of paprika
- 3 quarts water
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Cook the Macaroni:
- In a large pot, bring 3 quarts of water and 1 1/2 tsp salt to a rolling boil.
- Gradually add elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for 6-8 minutes until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water, then drain again completely.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, celery, carrot, chopped egg, onion, sweet relish, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the dressing mixture.
- Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Chill & Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to suit your taste preference.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
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