Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

Why You’ll Love This Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

This recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and uses simple pantry staples. It has that nostalgic deviled egg flavor with a creamy, slightly tangy dressing that coats every bite of pasta. It is perfect for feeding a crowd, can be made ahead of time, and tastes even better after chilling. Best of all, it pairs well with almost any main dish, from grilled chicken to burgers.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

• Serving Size: Serves 6 to 8 people
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Medium pot for boiling eggs
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 6 large eggs
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or pickle juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
• Optional garnish: paprika, chopped chives, or parsley

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How to Make Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, place eggs in a medium pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn off heat, cover, and let sit for 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice bath, then peel.
3. Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Chop the egg whites and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, mash the egg yolks with mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chopped egg whites, celery, and red onion.
6. Pour the yolk mixture over the salad and gently stir until everything is well coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Tips for the Best Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

Always rinse the pasta with cold water so it does not absorb too much dressing. Mash the egg yolks until completely smooth to create a creamy deviled egg-style dressing. Let the salad chill before serving to allow the flavors to fully blend. If it thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or mayonnaise before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta can make the salad mushy, so cook it just until al dente. Skipping the chilling time will result in a less flavorful salad. Adding too much onion can overpower the deviled egg flavor, so keep it finely chopped and minimal. Avoid under-seasoning, as pasta absorbs salt quickly.

Variations and Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Add chopped dill pickles or relish for extra tang. For a smoky twist, mix in a pinch of smoked paprika. Bacon crumbles make a great addition for extra flavor. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. This salad is perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day. Do not freeze, as the mayonnaise-based dressing will separate.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve this macaroni salad chilled in a large bowl sprinkled with paprika and fresh herbs. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or barbecue dishes. For parties, serve it in individual cups for easy portioning. It also works well as a side for lunch meal prep boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What pasta works best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells or ditalini also work well.

Can I make it without mustard?
Mustard gives the deviled egg flavor, but you can reduce the amount or substitute with a little lemon juice if needed.

Is this salad served warm or cold?
It is best served cold after chilling.

Related Post:Cucumber Caprese Salad

Conclusion

This Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is a creamy, comforting side dish that combines two classic favorites into one irresistible recipe. It is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any gathering. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a make-ahead side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Save it, pin it, and bring it to your next potluck.