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A close-up shot of a wooden spoon lifting a scoop of old-fashioned macaroni salad, showing the creamy dressing and diced vegetables.

Macaroni Salad Recipe (The Creamiest Ever!)

The ultimate Macaroni Salad Recipe! This guide delivers a classic, creamy, and flavorful side dish perfect for any potluck, picnic, or BBQ. Learn the secrets to the best-ever dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Elbow Macaroni
  • 2 Celery Stalks finely diced
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper finely diced
  • 1/2 Red Onion finely diced
  • 2 Hard-Boiled Eggs chopped (optional)
  • 1.5 cups Mayonnaise good quality
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Do not overcook.
  2. Drain the macaroni and immediately rinse under cold water until completely cool. This stops the cooking and removes excess starch.
  3. While the pasta cooks, finely dice the celery, red bell pepper, and red onion. If using, chop the hard-boiled eggs.
  4. In a large serving bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Add the cooled pasta, diced vegetables, and chopped eggs (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill for 4 hours or overnight.

Notes

For the best flavor, make this macaroni salad a day ahead of time.
If the salad seems a little dry after chilling, stir in an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise before serving.
Feel free to customize with additions like shredded carrots, sweet peas, or cubed cheddar cheese.