Macaroni salad is a beloved classic that never goes out of style. This easy homemade version combines tender macaroni with a creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables, making it a perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. The beauty of macaroni salad lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite add-ins and make it as simple or as elaborate as you like. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a side dish to complement your main course, this macaroni salad is both satisfying and delicious. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Macaroni Salad
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Cook the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta.
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Prepare the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
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Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
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Add Vegetables and Eggs
- Gently fold in the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, peas, and chopped hard-boiled eggs (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well distributed.
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Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings
This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.
FAQs for Easy Homemade Macaroni Salad
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just make sure to cook it until al dente.
Q: Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream for a lighter option.
Q: What other vegetables can I add? A: You can add vegetables like shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, or sweet corn for extra crunch and flavor.
Q: How can I make the salad spicier? A: Add a bit of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Easy Homemade Macaroni Salad is a go-to recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Its creamy, tangy dressing combined with tender pasta and crunchy vegetables makes it a delightful side dish that everyone will enjoy. The best part about this salad is its flexibility—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or add-ins to suit your taste. Whether you're preparing a meal for a family get-together or a simple lunch, this macaroni salad offers a delicious and satisfying option that's sure to be a hit. With its easy preparation and classic flavors, this recipe is a staple you'll return to time and again.
