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Creamy Macaroni Salad

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This Creamy Macaroni Salad is cool, tangy, and packed with crunchy veggies, making it the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks. Made with tender pasta, a creamy mayo dressing, and flavorful mix-ins, this easy make-ahead salad is always a crowd favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or small shells, rotini, or ditalini!)
  • ½ cup diced celery
  • ½ cup diced red bell pepper (or green for a milder taste!)
  • ¼ cup diced red onion (or green onions for a lighter flavor!)
  • ½ cup shredded carrots (adds a touch of sweetness!)
  • ⅓ cup sweet pickle relish (or chopped dill pickles for tang!)
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional but classic!)

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • ¾ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version!)
  • ¼ cup sour cream (adds extra creaminess!)
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard (or Dijon for more depth!)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar for tang!)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (balances flavors!)
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste!)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and mild spice!)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions.
  3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. Add cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, onion, carrots, relish, and chopped eggs to the bowl with the dressing.
  2. Toss everything until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) for best flavor.
  2. Before serving, give it a stir and add more mayo or a splash of milk if needed.
  3. Garnish with extra paprika, green onions, or parsley and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • BBQ & Grilled Meats: Perfect alongside burgers, ribs, or grilled chicken.
  • Picnic Ready: Pack it for a summer picnic or potluck.
  • As a Make-Ahead Dish: Stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge!

Notes

  • Want it tangier? Add extra pickle juice or more vinegar.
  • Like it sweeter? Increase sugar to 1 ½ tbsp or use honey.
  • Make it heartier! Add cubed ham, shredded chicken, or crispy bacon.
  • Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on condiments.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/creamy-macaroni-salad/