“This is the best macaroni salad that I’ve tasted.” – Betty

This recipe for The Best Macaroni Salad delivers on its promise, offering a perfectly balanced, creamy, and flavorful side dish that’s ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or any casual gathering. With tender pasta, a tangy-sweet dressing, and a delightful crunch from fresh vegetables, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Best Macaroni Salad

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

Optional Add-Ins:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 2 cups elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until it is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Drain the pasta thoroughly and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent stickiness. Let it cool completely.
2. Step 2: Make the Dressing In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Step 3: Combine the Ingredients Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Stir in the 1 cup finely diced celery, 1/2 cup finely diced red onion, 1/2 cup shredded carrots (if using), and any optional add-ins such as diced bell peppers, thawed frozen peas, cooked and crumbled bacon, or shredded cheddar cheese. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Step 4: Chill Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This crucial chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures the salad is thoroughly chilled, which enhances its refreshing taste.
5. Step 5: Adjust and Serve Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; you might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or sugar to reach your preferred balance of flavors. Garnish with the chopped hard-boiled egg (if using) or a sprinkle of paprika for a finishing touch and added visual appeal.