Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad: The Perfect Summer Picnic Side Dish

Classic Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a delicious, creamy side dish that shines at summer cookouts, potlucks, and picnics—combining tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing for the ultimate make-ahead dish.

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad

• Rich, creamy mayo-based dressing with a hint of tang
• Colorful blend of chopped celery, carrot, and onion for crunch
• Easy to customize with pickles, bell pepper, or hard-boiled eggs
• Perfect make-ahead pasta salad that keeps well in the fridge

Ingredients for Classic Macaroni Salad

• 4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, peeled & chopped
• 1/2 small sweet onion, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Macaroni Salad

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cooled macaroni, chopped celery, carrot, and onion to the bowl. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta with the tangy dressing.
4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld into the perfect pasta salad.
5. Before serving, give the dish a quick toss and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 390 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 19 g (Saturated fat: 3 g)
• Sodium: 529 mg
• Sugar: 16 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Tips & Variations for Your Pasta Salad

• Extra crunch: Stir in diced bell peppers or chopped cucumbers.
• Make it zesty: Swap white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
• Protein boost: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs or diced ham.
• Spicy twist: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Herb fresh: Top with chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives.

Enjoy every crunchy, creamy forkful of macaroni.