Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe – Delicious & Creamy

Looking for the perfect side dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? This Easy Macaroni Salad recipe delivers on all fronts, offering a creamy, delicious, and classic addition to any meal or gathering. It’s the ultimate comfort food salad, packed with flavor and ready to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (good quality recommended)
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional, for color and sweetness)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Paprika, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
2. While the macaroni cools, prepare your vegetables and eggs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, finely chopped celery, diced red onion, chopped red bell pepper (if using), and chopped hard-boiled eggs (if using).
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Pour the creamy dressing over the macaroni mixture. Gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Stir occasionally during chilling if possible.
6. Before serving, give the macaroni salad a good stir. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful, creamy side!
7. Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.