Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad

Introduction

Macaroni Salad is a timeless side dish that shows up at picnics, barbecues, potlucks, and family dinners. This classic version is creamy, slightly tangy, and packed with crunchy vegetables for the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Made with simple ingredients and easy steps, this macaroni salad tastes even better after chilling, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe for warm-weather meals and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup celery, finely chopped
⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup carrots, shredded
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Preparation

Cook macaroni in salted water according to package directions until tender.
Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Add cooled macaroni, celery, onion, carrots, and eggs if using.
Gently stir until everything is well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Garnish with parsley if desired before serving.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 19 g

Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I rinse macaroni for macaroni salad?

Yes. Rinsing cools the pasta quickly and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes best when made a few hours or even a day in advance.

How do I keep macaroni salad from drying out?

Stir in a little extra mayonnaise just before serving if needed.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes. Diced ham, tuna, or cooked chicken are great additions.

How long does macaroni salad last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 4 days.