Macaroni Salad

Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe (Easy, Crowd-Pleasing, and Perfect for Summer)

If there’s one dish that instantly screams backyard barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings, it’s a good old-fashioned macaroni salad. This classic creamy macaroni salad recipe is rich, tangy, slightly sweet, and loaded with crunch in every bite. It’s the kind of side dish that disappears fast, gets requested often, and somehow tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or just want a reliable make-ahead side, this recipe checks every box.

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad

This macaroni salad is easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and comes together with minimal effort. It’s creamy without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and flexible enough to customize based on what you have on hand. It’s also a make-ahead dream, which means less stress on the day you’re serving it.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

Serving Size: Serves 6 to 8 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time for best flavor)

Kitchen Equipment Required

Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

2 cups dry elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 to 2 tablespoons sugar, to taste
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup diced bell pepper
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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How to Make Macaroni Salad

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just tender. Do not overcook. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni, celery, red onion, bell pepper, and chopped eggs.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend. Stir again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad

Cook the pasta just until tender and rinse it well so it doesn’t continue cooking or absorb too much dressing. Chill the salad before serving to let the flavors fully develop. Taste after chilling and add a splash of vinegar or a spoonful of mayo if it needs refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta can make the salad mushy. Skipping the chilling step can result in flat flavor. Adding dressing while the pasta is still warm can cause it to soak up too much sauce and dry out later.

Variations and Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Add diced pickles or relish for extra tang. Swap red onion for green onions if you prefer a milder flavor. For a Southern-style twist, add a little pickle juice and extra mustard. You can also mix in diced ham, bacon bits, or shredded chicken to turn it into a heartier dish.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Stir before serving and add a little mayo if it looks dry. This salad is perfect for meal prep since it actually improves in flavor after sitting overnight.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve macaroni salad chilled in a large bowl with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley on top. It pairs perfectly with grilled burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken, or ribs. For parties, serve it in a chilled serving bowl to keep it fresh longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for making a day in advance. Just stir and adjust seasoning before serving.

Why does my macaroni salad dry out?
Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits. Add a small amount of mayo or milk before serving to refresh it.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?
Freezing is not recommended because mayonnaise-based dressings can separate when thawed.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells or ditalini work well too.

Conclusion

This classic creamy macaroni salad recipe is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable, making it perfect for everything from summer cookouts to weeknight dinners. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation and a go-to side dish everyone asks for again and again.