If you’ve ever found yourself craving a classic side dish that brings together creamy, tangy, and crunchy all in one bite, then you’re in for a treat with The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe. This timeless dish is a perfect balance of tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious dressing, studded with colorful veggies and savory chopped eggs. Whether you’re heading to a family picnic, a potluck, or just want a comforting salad to brighten up your dinner plate, this recipe delivers every single time with its irresistibly fresh flavors and satisfying textures.

The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the long list intimidate you—each ingredient is simple yet essential, working together to create a symphony of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that make The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe truly unforgettable.

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The tender pasta base that soaks up all the creamy dressing perfectly.
1 cup mayonnaise: Provides the rich, smooth texture that ties everything together.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to balance the creaminess.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon sugar: Just enough sweetness to round out the tangy notes.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of warmth to lift the dish.
1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper: Adds a fresh crunch and vivid color.
1/2 cup finely chopped celery: Offers crispness and a natural earthiness.
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Gives a mild sharpness that brightens the salad.
1/4 cup chopped dill pickles or relish: Infuses the salad with a piquant bite.
2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped): A satisfying, protein-rich addition that makes every bite even more delightful.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, herbaceous finish that adds a pop of green and extra flavor.

How to Make The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by boiling your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente — tender but still with a nice bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This step stops the cooking process and cools the pasta quickly, ensuring that your salad won’t get mushy and that every piece stays delightfully firm.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. This creamy dressing is where all the magic begins, blending tangy, sweet, and savory notes that coat the pasta and veggies with irresistible flavor.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Dressing

Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and gently toss to coat every bit evenly. This ensures that each mouthful bursts with the creamy, tangy goodness that defines The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe.

Step 4: Stir in the Veggies and Eggs

Next, fold in the red bell pepper, celery, red onion, chopped pickles or relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. These fresh ingredients add color, texture, and layers of flavor that make this salad stand out from the crowd.

Step 5: Chill and Marinate

Cover your bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and develop, transforming the dish into the perfect cold side that is even better the next day.

How to Serve The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh touch. If you want to get fancy, a dash of smoked paprika or a few extra pickle slices can add flair and extra zing.

Side Dishes

The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats like barbecue ribs, juicy burgers, or spicy chicken. It also shines as a refreshing counterpoint to rich, hearty dishes and makes a perfect picnic or potluck companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the salad in clear jars for individual servings at parties or family gatherings. You can also scoop it into crisp lettuce cups for a fun, handheld treat or dollop it atop avocado halves for a trendy twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once prepared, keep your macaroni salad covered and chilled in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftover enjoyment.

Freezing

Because of the creamy mayonnaise base and fresh veggies, freezing The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe is not recommended. The texture will change, and the salad may become watery once thawed.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not necessary and will alter its delightful texture and flavor. Simply give it a gentle stir after sitting at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s too cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini also work wonderfully to hold onto the dressing and veggies.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This version includes mayonnaise and hard-boiled eggs, so it isn’t vegan. However, you can swap mayo for a plant-based alternative and omit the eggs for a vegan-friendly twist.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

At least one hour is ideal to let the flavors meld, but overnight chilling ups the flavor even more and improves the overall texture.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the salad?

Definitely! Bacon bits, shredded cheese, or a splash of hot sauce are delicious additions that can tailor the salad to your taste.

What’s the best way to ensure the salad isn’t soggy?

Be sure to rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking and drain all excess water from the veggies to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting and celebratory about The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe. It’s a dish that welcomes everyone to the table with a creamy, tangy hug and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re making it for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this macaroni salad is sure to become one of your all-time favorites. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the fun of making and sharing this classic side dish brighten your next meal!

The Best Macaroni Salad Recipe

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4 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus at least 1 hour chilling time)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This classic macaroni salad is creamy, tangy, and packed with crisp vegetables and chopped eggs. It’s the perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or a refreshing summer meal. The combination of mayonnaise with apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard creates a flavorful dressing that coats tender elbow macaroni and crunchy veggies perfectly. Chill for at least an hour to meld the flavors and enjoy a cool, satisfying salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salad Mix-Ins

1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped dill pickles or relish
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool completely and stop the cooking process.
Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Combine pasta and dressing: Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and toss thoroughly to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Add the vegetables and eggs: Stir in finely chopped red bell pepper, celery, red onion, chopped dill pickles or relish, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
Chill before serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to develop and meld beautifully.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the macaroni salad with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

For a creamier texture, add a few tablespoons of milk or more mayonnaise before serving.
This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to deepen flavors.
Feel free to swap dill pickles for sweet relish if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American