Creamy Macaroni Salad

Creamy Macaroni Salad

There are few dishes that feel as nostalgic and universally loved as a classic macaroni salad. It’s the kind of recipe that shows up at backyard barbecues, summer picnics, potlucks, and family reunions—usually in a big bowl that mysteriously empties faster than anything else on the table.
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Prep Time: 15minutes 
Cook Time: 1hour 
Total Time: 1hour  15minutes 
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp sugar adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup celery finely diced
  • 1/3 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill chopped (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
  • Make the dressing:
  • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Combine:
  • Add cooled macaroni to the dressing along with celery, bell pepper, onion, and eggs (if using). Stir until evenly coated.
  • Chill:
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
  • Serve:
  • Stir once more before serving and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 8g