This Creamy Classic Macaroni Salad is the kind of timeless side dish that never goes out of style. It’s cool, comforting, and packed with familiar flavors everyone loves. Tender macaroni is tossed with crisp vegetables, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy-sweet dressing that gets even better as it chills. Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, a picnic, or a potluck, this macaroni salad is always a safe bet and usually the first bowl to empty.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the macaroni
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni in well-salted water according to the package directions until just al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. This step stops the cooking and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy. Drain very well.
2. Make the dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, making sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Combine the salad ingredients
Transfer the cooled macaroni to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced celery, red onion, red bell pepper, thawed peas, and cubed cheddar cheese.
4. Mix everything together
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently stir until all the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Chill before serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let it chill overnight. Before serving, give it a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
Helpful Tips
- Cool the pasta completely: Warm pasta will absorb too much dressing and turn the salad dry. Always rinse and drain well.
- Chop evenly: Small, even pieces of vegetables give you better texture in every bite.
- Taste after chilling: Flavors mellow in the fridge, so you may want to add a pinch of salt or a spoon of mayo before serving.
- Don’t overdress: If you prefer a creamier salad later, save a few tablespoons of dressing to stir in just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, macaroni salad tastes better when made ahead. Preparing it the day before allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
How long does macaroni salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Small pasta shapes like shells, ditalini, or rotini work well if you don’t have elbow macaroni.
Is it possible to make this lighter?
Yes. You can replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo, keeping in mind the flavor will be slightly different.
Why does my macaroni salad dry out?
Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits. Stir in a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving to bring back the creamy texture.
