Go Back
–+ servings
Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad

Creamy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying! This Classic Macaroni Salad is the ultimate picnic and potluck favorite — tender elbows, crunchy veggies, and a silky mayo dressing with just the right zing.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup shredded or diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  3. Step 3: Add the cooled macaroni, diced celery, carrots, and bell pepper to the bowl.
  4. Step 4: Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing.
  5. Step 5: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
  6. Step 6: Serve cold, garnished with a touch more black pepper if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcal

Notes

Make it your own: add chopped pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or a dash of paprika for extra depth.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!