Easy Macaroni Salad

Introduction

This easy macaroni salad is more than just a side—it’s a staple. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a dish to share at a get-together, this recipe comes together quickly and tastes even better the next day. It’s creamy, crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet—basically, it hits all the right notes.

Reasons to Love This Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe

• It tastes better the longer it sits

• Works for every season—not just summer!

• Feeds a crowd on a budget

• Super flexible ingredients list

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Elbow pasta

• Cheddar cheese cubes

• Finely chopped red onion

• Celery pieces

• Red bell pepper

• Frozen peas (no need to thaw)

• Full-fat mayo

• Apple cider vinegar

• Dijon mustard

• Sugar

• Salt and cracked pepper

• Fresh dill or parsley

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Creamy twist

Try half mayo and half sour cream for a tangy kick.

Flavor extras

Sweet relish, chopped olives, smoked paprika

Protein options

Crispy bacon bits, diced ham, flaked salmon

Tools You’ll Need

• Pot

• Colander

• Knife and board

• Bowls (2)

• Whisk

• Storage containers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Pasta prep

Boil until just tender. Rinse well with cold water and drain.

Step 2: Chop veggies

Dice everything to bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

Step 3: Make the creamy dressing

Whisk together mayo, mustard, vinegar, dill, sugar, and seasonings.

Step 4: Combine all ingredients

Add pasta, veggies, cheese, and dressing to a bowl. Toss gently.

Step 5: Chill time

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 6: Finishing touches

Stir well before serving and garnish with herbs.

What to Serve with Macaroni Salad

• Meat skewers

• Grilled veggie sandwiches

• BBQ jackfruit

• Turkey burgers

• Corn on the cob

How to Store Macaroni Salad

Refrigerate in airtight containers. Best consumed within 3–4 days.

Can I Freeze Macaroni Salad?

It’s not recommended. Freezing affects the texture of both the pasta and the creamy dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Not as written, but you can use vegan cheese and mayo.

How long does it last?

Up to 4 days in the fridge.

Can I add more vinegar?

Yes, adjust to taste.

Does it need to chill before serving?

Yes, for at least 30 minutes to blend the flavors.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

If you’re in a rush, yes—but homemade is always better.

Two Resources

• BBC Good Food: Salad Recipes

• AllRecipes: Pasta Salad Ideas

Nutritional Information

Conclusion

Creamy, cool, and crave-worthy—this macaroni salad is the definition of a classic done right. It’s one of those dishes that never goes out of style and only gets better with each batch.

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