This Easy Macaroni Salad is a timeless side dish that brings creamy comfort to every barbecue, picnic, and family gathering. Made with simple ingredients like elbow pasta, crunchy veggies, and a tangy mayo dressing, it’s the perfect make-ahead recipe for summer. Quick to prep and full of flavor, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any table!
🕒 Prep Time: 10 mins
❄️ Chill Time: 30 mins (optional but recommended)
⏱️ Total Time: 40 mins
🍽️ Servings: 6–8
🔢 Calories per Serving: ~290
📝 Ingredients:
- 🍝 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 🧅 ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- 🫑 ½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 🥕 ½ cup shredded carrot
- 🥒 ½ cup chopped celery
- 🥚 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 🥄 ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 🍯 1 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard
- 🍎 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 🍬 1 tsp sugar
- 🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste
- 🌿 Optional: ¼ tsp celery seed or paprika
👩🍳 Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
3️⃣ Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, onion, pepper, carrot, celery, and chopped eggs if using.
4️⃣ Add the Dressing
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. Stir again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- ✅ Quick & easy to make
- ✅ Perfect for BBQs, potlucks & meal prep
- ✅ Customizable with your favorite veggies or add-ins
- ✅ Make-ahead friendly — gets better the next day
- ✅ Creamy, tangy, and kid-approved
📌 Save this Easy Macaroni Salad recipe for your next gathering — it’s a tried-and-true classic you’ll make again and again.
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