Few dishes evoke the warmth of summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues quite like a classic macaroni salad. This Rich and Creamy Macaroni Salad is the epitome of comfort, featuring tender elbow macaroni, crisp fresh vegetables, and a luscious, tangy dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It’s incredibly easy to make, a fantastic make-ahead option, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any event. Get ready to stir up a beloved classic that’s packed with flavor and irresistible creamy goodness!

Why I Love This Recipe

Macaroni salad is a staple for a reason, and this recipe perfects the art of a truly creamy and flavorful version. What I love most about it is the balance of textures and tastes. The tender elbow macaroni provides the perfect base, while the crisp celery, sweet red bell pepper, and fresh green onions add a delightful crunch and vibrant color.

The dressing is the star here—a rich, tangy, and subtly spiced blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. It’s incredibly creamy without being overly heavy, and the garlic and onion powder give it that classic, comforting macaroni salad flavor. It’s surprisingly quick to throw together, especially if you cook the macaroni ahead of time, and it only gets better as it chills, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s truly a timeless side dish that brings smiles to every face.

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Swaps and Notes

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic for macaroni salad, but ditalini or small shells could also be used.
• Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise will give the creamiest, richest dressing. You can use light mayo, but the texture might be slightly different.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess. Plain Greek yogurt (full-fat) can be used as a healthier substitute, providing more tang.
• Garlic Powder/Onion Powder: These contribute to the classic savory flavor profile. You can add a tiny bit of fresh minced garlic (1/2 clove) or onion (1 tablespoon finely grated) for a stronger kick.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing. Yellow mustard can be substituted for a more classic picnic salad flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides essential acidity and tanginess. White vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used.
• Vegetables: Feel free to customize with other finely diced vegetables like carrots, cucumber, or even a bit of finely chopped white onion (though the green onions cover that). Ensure vegetables are diced small for even distribution.
• Optional Add-ins: A sprinkle of smoked paprika, a pinch of sugar to balance the tang, or a tablespoon of fresh chopped dill or parsley can elevate the flavor.

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Directions:

Making this Rich and Creamy Macaroni Salad is quick and easy, perfect for prepping ahead of time.

1. Cook and Cool Macaroni: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroniand cook according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the macaroni thoroughly in a colander. Immediately rinse the cooked macaroni under cold water to cool it down quickly and prevent it from sticking together. Drain very well. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing: While the macaroni is cooling, in a large mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Whisk all these ingredients together until the dressing is completely smooth and well combined.
3. Add Macaroni and Vegetables: Add the cooled and well-drained macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Also add the diced celery, diced red bell pepper, and sliced green onions.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the ingredients together using a large spoon or spatula until everything is well coated with the creamy dressing and the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the macaroni.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or preferably 2-4 hours, or even overnight) before serving. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious salad.

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Pro Tip:

Rinsing the cooked macaroni under cold water is a crucial step for macaroni salad! It stops the cooking process immediately, prevents the pasta from becoming mushy, and removes excess starch, which helps the dressing cling better and keeps the salad from becoming gummy. Ensure the macaroni is thoroughly drained after rinsing.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Rich and Creamy Macaroni Salad is a versatile classic, perfect for almost any casual meal or gathering.

• Potlucks and Barbecues: It’s a quintessential side dish for grilled burgers, hot dogs, barbecued ribs, or grilled chicken.
• Picnics: Easy to transport and a refreshing addition to any picnic basket.
• Summer Meals: Pairs wonderfully with light summer fare like grilled fish or simple sandwiches.
• Comfort Food Sides: This salad fits perfectly alongside other beloved comfort food classics. Consider serving it with a hearty main dish like your favorite grilled chicken or even some Smothered Pork Chops.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

Macaroni salad is excellent for making ahead and stores well.

• Storage: Store any leftover Rich and Creamy Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta will absorb some of the dressing over time, so it might become a bit thicker.
• Rejuvenate (if needed): If the salad seems too thick or dry after chilling, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of milk, extra mayonnaise, or a splash of apple cider vinegar to restore its creamy consistency.
• Best Chilled: Always serve this macaroni salad chilled.

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More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the creamy, comforting, and easy nature of this salad, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other fantastic recipes:

• For another bright and healthy salad option, check out your Avocado & Egg Salad Recipe.
• If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting casseroles, my Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are always a hit.
• For a simple yet flavorful vegetable side that’s great for gatherings, consider Baked Brussels Sprouts.
• And for a fresh, zesty chicken main course that goes well with a side like this, your Grilled Chicken Breast with Salad & Creamy Herb Sauce is a fantastic choice.

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Final Thoughts

This Rich and Creamy Macaroni Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a nostalgic taste of comfort and a celebration of simple, delicious ingredients. With its tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and irresistible creamy dressing, it’s guaranteed to be a beloved addition to any meal or gathering. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy this timeless classic!

What’s your favorite secret ingredient for a truly memorable macaroni salad? Share your tips in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and heartwarming recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.