Creamy Macaroni Salad for Cookouts and Simple Side Meals
A classic Creamy Macaroni Salad made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a smooth, tangy dressing perfect for gatherings and everyday meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until just tender, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Let the pasta drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooled macaroni and gently mix to coat evenly.
- Stir in celery, onion, bell pepper, and chopped eggs.
- Mix until evenly combined without breaking the pasta.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Chill longer for better flavor. Add a small amount of mayonnaise before serving if the salad becomes dry.