Print

Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Classic Macaroni Salad is a delightful and creamy dish that brings comfort to any gathering. This versatile salad combines tender macaroni with a medley of colorful vegetables, cheddar cheese, and a rich dressing featuring mayonnaise and sour cream. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish at family barbecues, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With its satisfying crunch and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a hit among guests of all ages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dried macaroni pasta
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced small (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 stalks celery, diced small
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 5 sweet gherkins, finely diced
  • 4 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed small
  • 2 hard boiled eggs, peeled and finely diced
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon paprika, optional

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the diced bell pepper, celery, red onion, gherkins, cheddar cheese, and eggs. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, cider vinegar, sugar, dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving for optimal flavor.

Nutrition