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Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe: Easy Authentic Side Dish for Parties

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This creamy macaroni salad is a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing side dish featuring tender elbow macaroni, crisp veggies, and a tangy, rich dressing. Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and easily customizable for any dietary need.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup carrot, shredded
  • 1/3 cup sweet onion or red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 cup real mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Pinch of paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced dill pickles or sweet pickles (optional)
  • 1/3 cup diced ham or cooked bacon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to dry.
  2. While pasta cooks, finely chop celery, red bell pepper, carrots, and onion. Thaw peas if using. Chop parsley if desired.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled macaroni, chopped veggies, peas, and parsley. Add optional eggs, pickles, or ham if desired.
  5. Pour dressing over salad and gently fold together with a wooden spoon or spatula.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2-3 hours preferred) to chill and meld flavors.
  7. Before serving, stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra parsley or paprika.

Notes

For best texture, use real full-fat mayonnaise and chop veggies finely. Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving for optimal flavor. If salad seems dry after chilling, add a bit more mayo or a splash of milk. Easily adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by swapping pasta and dressing ingredients. Make ahead for parties and stir before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, party side dish, potluck recipe, picnic salad, classic macaroni salad, easy macaroni salad, authentic macaroni salad

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