Before we dive in — thank you so much for stopping by! I love nothing more than sharing a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser like this Best Macaroni Salad. If you’ve ever found yourself standing at a summer potluck, making a beeline for the cold salads, this is that salad — the one everyone scoops onto their plate twice.
Tender pasta, crunchy fresh veggies, and a sweet-tangy dressing that clings to every bite — this is the side dish that never disappoints!
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Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad
This is one of those humble dishes that proves simple really is best. Here’s why it’s a keeper:
- Perfect balance: Sweet, tangy, creamy — never bland.
- Crowd-pleasing crunch: Fresh celery, onion, and (optional!) carrots add texture.
- Flexible: Add your favorite extras to make it yours.
- Make ahead: Actually improves as it chills in the fridge!
What Does It Taste Like?
Classic picnic perfection: cool, creamy pasta with pops of crunchy veggies and a rich yet bright dressing that keeps you coming back for more. It’s savory but slightly sweet, with that nostalgic flavor that pairs perfectly with everything from burgers to BBQ chicken.
Benefits of This Recipe
✔️ Inexpensive, easy-to-find ingredients
✔️ Quick to make — just cook, mix, chill
✔️ Customizable — toss in whatever you like!
✔️ A reliable side for cookouts, holidays, and potlucks
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni (or small pasta) | 2 cups |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Yellow mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| White or apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar (adjust to taste) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Finely diced celery | 1 cup |
| Finely diced red onion | ½ cup |
| Shredded carrots (optional) | ½ cup |
| Hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional) | 1 |
Optional Add-Ins
- Diced bell peppers
- Thawed frozen peas
- Cooked, crumbled bacon
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk & spatula
Easy Additions & Swaps
✨ Add protein: Stir in diced ham or chicken for a heartier salad.
✨ Make it lighter: Use half Greek yogurt and half mayo.
✨ Boost flavor: A splash of pickle juice or relish adds extra tang!
How to Make The Best Macaroni Salad
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 2 cups elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Let it cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, 2 tablespoons vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until smooth and creamy.
3️⃣ Combine
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl. Stir in celery, red onion, shredded carrots, and any extras you like — bell peppers, peas, bacon, or cheese. Gently toss until everything is coated.
4️⃣ Chill
Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 1–2 hours. This lets the flavors come together and the salad get perfectly cold.
5️⃣ Adjust & Serve
Before serving, stir again and taste — add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed. Top with chopped hard-boiled egg or a sprinkle of paprika if you’d like!
What to Serve With Macaroni Salad
- Grilled burgers, brats, or hot dogs
- BBQ chicken or ribs
- Fried chicken at a picnic
- A simple sandwich spread
Tips for the Best Macaroni Salad
✔️ Rinse the pasta in cold water so it doesn’t stick together.
✔️ Chill it for at least an hour — more time means better flavor.
✔️ Dice the veggies finely so every bite is balanced.
✔️ If you want it creamier, stir in a splash more mayo right before serving.
How to Store
- Fridge: Keep covered and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Make ahead: Perfect to prep the night before!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Small shells, ditalini, or rotini work great too.
Is it sweet or tangy?
Both — the sugar and vinegar balance each other perfectly. Adjust to taste!
Can I freeze it?
Not recommended — the mayo-based dressing can separate.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Betty says, “This is the best macaroni salad I’ve tasted.” One bite, and you’ll understand why — it’s the simple classic that never goes out of style!
If you love this, you’ll also enjoy my Ultimate Chicken Casserole or Everything Bagel Dip — more potluck favorites everyone raves about!
👉 Did you make it? Leave a comment or share your bowl on Pinterest — I love seeing your delicious spins on my favorite recipes!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 290 | Protein: 6g | Carbs: 24g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g
Thanks for mixing up something delicious with me today — happy picnicking! 🥣✨