Classic Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is a timeless side dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings. Creamy, tangy, and loaded with crisp vegetables, this Classic Macaroni Salad is easy to make and loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
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2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
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1 teaspoon sugar
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 cup celery, finely chopped
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½ cup red bell pepper, diced
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½ cup red onion, finely chopped
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2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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Optional garnish: paprika, fresh parsley, or chopped chives
Instructions
1. Cook the Macaroni
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients
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Add cooked and cooled macaroni to the dressing.
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Stir in celery, bell pepper, red onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Mix until evenly coated.
4. Chill
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad more refreshing.
5. Serve
Transfer macaroni salad to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika, parsley, or chives. Serve cold as a side to grilled meats, sandwiches, or at potlucks and picnics.
Tips for Perfect Macaroni Salad
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Al Dente Pasta: Avoid overcooking macaroni to prevent a mushy salad.
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Customize Veggies: Add peas, shredded carrots, or cucumber for extra color and crunch.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance; flavors improve after sitting overnight.
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Creaminess Control: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream for your preferred texture.
Variations
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Southern-Style: Add sweet pickle relish and a touch more sugar for a sweeter version.
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Italian-Style: Substitute mayonnaise with Italian dressing and add olives, cherry tomatoes, and shredded mozzarella.
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Low-Fat Option: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Macaroni Salad is creamy, tangy, and loaded with fresh vegetables, making it a versatile side dish for almost any meal. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this macaroni salad is a guaranteed hit.