Macaroni Salad Recipe | Classic BBQ Side Dish

If you’re looking for the ultimate summertime side dish that’s easy to make, irresistibly creamy, and loved by just about everyone, look no further than this Classic Macaroni Salad! Whether you’re heading to a BBQ, potluck, or just want a satisfying cold pasta salad in the fridge, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why You'll Love This Spectacular Side Dish

• Simple & Reliable. This is a time-tested classic that always turns out great.
• Make-Ahead Friendly. Even better after a few hours in the fridge.
• Crowd-Pleaser. Perfect for picnics, parties, and family dinners.
• Customizable. Easy to tweak to suit your preferences.

Once you make this macaroni salad from scratch, you’ll never want to settle for store-bought again. The creamy dressing and crisp vegetables make it the perfect addition to any summer meal.

What Does Macaroni Salad Taste Like?

Macaroni salad is the kind of dish that shows up at almost every summer cookout, and for good reason. It’s creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and full of texture thanks to the crunchy veggies.

Not only is it satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, and more. And let’s be honest, macaroni salad tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You'll Need

• Elbow Macaroni- The star of the show! Cook until al dente and rinse with cold water.
• Mayonnaise- Forms the creamy base of the dressing. Use a high-quality mayo for best flavor.
• Dijon Mustard- Adds tang and complexity to the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar- Helps balance out the richness of the mayo and adds brightness.
• Tomato- Diced tomato adds natural sweetness and color the the salad.
• Sugar- Just a touch of sweetness to round out the flavor.
• Salt & Pepper- Season to taste.
• Peas and Carotts- Adds fresh crunch to every bite.
• Red Bell Pepper- For color, crunch, and a little natural sweetness.
• Red Onion- Adds sharpness and bite.
• Pickle Relish- Sweet or dill, depending on your preference, for a tangy punch.

How To Make Macaroni Salad

1. Cook the Macaroni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
2. Prep the Veggies and Eggs. While the macaroni is cooling, finely dice the red bell pepper, tomato, and red onion.
3. Make the Dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine Everything. Add the cooled macaroni, diced vegetables, and pickle relish to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and garnish with chopped parsley or paprika for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips And Tricks

Making a great macaroni salad is easy, but these tips will ensure you get it perfect every time:

• Rinse the Pasta. Rinsing stops the cooking and removes excess starch so the salad doesn’t get gummy.
• Use Real Mayonnaise. Avoid light or fat-free versions for the best creamy texture and flavor.
• Chill Before Serving. Give your salad time in the fridge. It really brings out the best flavors.
• Dice Ingredients Evenly. Small, uniform pieces make for a better texture and more balanced bites.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta. Mushy pasta will ruin the texture of the salad. Aim for just al dente.

Variations

Want to change it up? Here are some fun and delicious ways to customize your macaroni salad:

• Bacon- Add crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, salty twist.
• Tuna- Mix in a can of drained tuna for a protein-packed version.
• Spicy- Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or sriracha for a little kick.
• Vegan- Use vegan mayo and skip the eggs. Add chickpeas for extra protein.
• Cheddar- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.

What To Eat With Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some tasty options to complete your meal:

• Grilled Chicken or Steak- A juicy protein balances the creaminess of the salad.
• Burgers and Hot Dogs- The ultimate cookout combo.
• Fried Chicken- Crispy and comforting, perfect with a cool salad.
• BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork- The tangy dressing plays beautifully with smoky BBQ flavors.
• Fresh Fruit- Add watermelon, cantaloupe, or pineapple for a refreshing contrast.

How Long Does It Last?

Macaroni salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. In fact, it usually tastes better the day after it's made!

If you’re taking it to a picnic or BBQ, make sure it doesn’t sit out for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s hot outside) to avoid spoilage.

Can You Freeze It?

Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Freezing can cause the mayo-based dressing to separate and make the texture watery or gritty once thawed.

If you need to prep ahead, consider chopping the vegetables and cooking the pasta in advance. Store them separately and mix everything together the day you plan to serve it.

More Of Our Best BBQ Sides

• Instant Pot Baked Beans
• Keto Coleslaw
• Vegan Potato Salad
• Low Carb Broccoli Salad
• Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

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