This creamy macaroni salad is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender elbow macaroni with a tangy and rich dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a touch of vinegar. The addition of crunchy celery enhances the texture, making each bite satisfying and delicious. It’s the perfect side dish to bring to picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings, and it’s quick and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this creamy macaroni salad because it’s simple yet full of flavor. The combination of the soft macaroni with the creamy dressing, tangy mustard, and the refreshing crunch of celery makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. It’s so versatile—it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even just as a snack on its own. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, and the fact that it only takes 20 minutes from start to finish is a huge bonus.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup celery, chopped
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth.
Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture and toss to combine.
Fold in the chopped celery for a nice crunch.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Storage/Reheating
I recommend storing any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you find the salad is a little too thick after refrigeration, you can thin it out with a small splash of milk or extra mayo. It’s best served cold, so no need to reheat.
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FAQs
Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually tastes even better when it sits for a bit. I like to make it a few hours or even the night before serving to let the flavors come together.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise for something else?
If you want a lighter version, you could substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream. It will give the salad a slightly different flavor, but still creamy and delicious!
Can I add more veggies to the salad?
Absolutely! I love adding extra veggies like diced red bell peppers, onions, or even pickles for more crunch and flavor. Feel free to get creative with the mix-ins.
How can I make this salad spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the dressing. It’s an easy way to kick up the flavor.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can certainly use another short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.
Conclusion
This creamy macaroni salad is a classic side dish that’s quick, simple, and delicious. Whether you’re bringing it to a summer BBQ or just making it for a family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. The creamy dressing, tender macaroni, and crunchy celery make for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, it’s a recipe that I always come back to for easy entertaining.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Macaroni Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy macaroni salad is the ultimate comfort dish, featuring tender elbow macaroni in a tangy and rich dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and vinegar. Crunchy celery adds texture, making it the perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, this macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to complement your meals with its creamy, flavorful goodness.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup celery, chopped
Instructions
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Cook the macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
-
Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth.
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Combine: Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing mixture and toss to combine.
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Add crunch: Fold in the chopped celery.
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Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Feel free to add extra veggies like red bell peppers, onions, or pickles for more crunch.
Spice it up by adding hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal
