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Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad: Creamy, Crunchy, and Perfectly Easy

A delicious Classic Macaroni Salad, combining creamy mayonnaise with crisp veggies for a perfect summer dish.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 33 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version
For the Creamy Base
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream use additional mayo as a substitute if sour cream is not available
For the Flavoring
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard yellow mustard can be used as a substitute
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar white vinegar can be used if apple cider vinegar is not on hand
  • 1 tbsp Sugar omit if you prefer a less sweet salad
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Diced Celery can be substituted with chopped cucumber for a different texture
  • 1 cup Diced Red Bell Pepper any sweet bell pepper can be used as a substitute
  • 1 cup Grated Carrots substitutable with corn for a different flavor profile
  • 1/2 cup Diced Red Onion use green onions for a milder flavor
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper adjust to taste
Optional Add-ins
  • 2 large Hard-Boiled Eggs omit for a lighter salad
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley any fresh herb can be substituted for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk until smooth.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced celery, red bell pepper, grated carrots, and diced red onion. Toss until mixed.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  4. Gently add the cooled elbow macaroni to the vegetables and stir until evenly distributed.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies, and fold gently until coated.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  6. Sprinkle salt and black pepper, stir to distribute. If using, fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  7. Cover the bowl or transfer salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
    Classic Macaroni Salad
  8. Stir before serving and garnish with chopped parsley or any fresh herb.
    Classic Macaroni Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, perfect for meal prep. Consider chilling for longer to enhance flavors.

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