Name: Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups dry elbow pasta; 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 red onion, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup pickles, diced; 1 can sweet corn, drained and rinsed; 2 cups diced cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup plain yogurt (whole milk or Greek); 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons pickle juice; 3 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 47 reviews

If you are searching for a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dish to bring to your next gathering or simply want a delightful side that complements almost any meal, this Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s vibrant, creamy, and packed with crunchy veggies and cheesy bites that make every forkful a celebration of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned salad lover or just starting to explore cool, creamy sides, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with 14 clear glass bowls arranged in a loose grid. The largest bowl near the top center holds plain, cooked elbow macaroni, creamy white in color and slightly shiny. To the top left is a bowl with bright red chopped bell peppers. Below it, a smaller bowl contains whole grain mustard with visible mustard seeds, pale yellow with brown spots. Next to the macaroni at top right are small bowls with black pepper and white salt, both dark and light powders. Below these, a small bowl holds sour cream that is smooth and bright white. Near the center is a bowl of yellow corn kernels, shiny and plump. To its right is a bowl of chopped red onions, purple and white. Below the corn is a bowl of bright green chopped celery and another with dark green chopped green onions. To the bottom left is a bowl with shredded orange cheddar cheese, fluffy and finely shredded. Next to it are tiny bowls with chopped parsley, another with creamy white mayonnaise, and a small bowl holding a pale yellow liquid, likely vinegar or oil. The bowls are all clean and clear, each ingredient showing bright and fresh colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity yet vibrant balance of ingredients. Each component plays a special role—pasta provides that classic tender base, crisp veggies add texture and freshness, and the creamy dressing ties everything together with a tangy, satisfying hug.

2 cups elbow pasta dry: Perfectly shaped for holding onto dressing and creating that classic macaroni salad mouthfeel.
2 large hard-boiled eggs chopped: Adds richness and a soft contrast to the crunchy veggies.
1 red bell pepper diced: Brings a sweet crunch and bright color to the salad.
1 red onion diced: Offers a sharp bite and balance for the creamy dressing.
2 stalks celery diced: Adds the essential crispness and fresh garden flavor.
1/4 cup green onions chopped: Provides a mild onion flavor with a nice bite of color.
1/2 cup pickles diced: Adds tang and a surprising crunch that livens up the salad.
1 can sweet corn drained and rinsed: Sweetness and a pop of yellow help brighten the dish.
2 cups diced cheddar cheese: Adds depth and creamy cheesiness that complements every bite.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that brings everything together seamlessly.
1/2 cup plain yogurt whole milk or Greek: Creamy with a hint of tang to lighten the dressing.
1 tablespoon sugar: Balances out acidity and enhances the overall flavor.
2 tablespoons pickle juice: Adds a zesty punch that complements the diced pickles perfectly.
3 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves chopped: Freshness and herbal brightness that lifts the salad.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Offers a mild tang and helps cut through the richness.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds subtle heat and complexity to the dressing.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle boost of savory flavor that rounds out the dressing.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s flavor.

How to Make Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your elbow pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente—cook until just tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain it well and transfer to a large bowl to cool down to room temperature. Properly cooled pasta ensures your salad doesn’t get mushy and holds the dressing beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta is cooling, combine the mayonnaise, plain yogurt, sugar, pickle juice, chopped parsley, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder in a separate bowl. Stir these ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing that’s bursting with layers of flavor.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Add your chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced red bell pepper, red onion, celery, green onions, pickles, sweet corn, and cheddar cheese into the cooled pasta bowl. Pour the dressing over the combined ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly, making sure every bite is coated with that luscious dressing.

Step 4: Chill for the Best Flavor

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a tight lid, then place it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld and intensify, making your Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe even more irresistible. You can also let it chill for up to 2 days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.

How to Serve Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad. The salad has three main layers: the bottom layer is elbow macaroni pasta in a creamy dressing, the middle layer includes bright yellow corn kernels and small red bell pepper pieces among the pasta, and the top layer is sprinkled with shredded orange cheddar cheese, green chopped scallions, and small green parsley pieces. The white marbled surface underneath the bowl adds a clean and fresh look to the photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or extra chopped green onions sprinkled on top add a pop of color and an herbaceous note that brightens every bite. These simple garnishes make the salad feel even more inviting and fresh when served.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Try it alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or fresh sandwiches for a well-rounded meal. Its creamy, tangy nature also contrasts beautifully with smoky or spicy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the macaroni salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or bell pepper halves to add an edible, colorful bowl. You can also layer it in a clear glass trifle bowl for a picnic or buffet, showcasing all the vibrant colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. This salad stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for packing lunches or enjoying as a snack between meals.

Freezing

Because of the mayonnaise and yogurt in the dressing, freezing is not recommended—it may cause separation and affect the creamy texture. For best results, enjoy this salad fresh or refrigerated only.

Reheating

This macaroni salad is best eaten cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If preferred, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow flavors to shine through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, small shells, rotini, or even mini penne can work beautifully to hold the dressing and blend with the other ingredients.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?

You can substitute mayonnaise with extra plain yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes! Feel free to mix in cucumbers, shredded carrots, or peas to tailor it to your taste and add even more color and crunch.

How long does this Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe keep in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container, but it’s always best enjoyed within the first two days for maximum freshness.

Is this salad suitable for potlucks and picnics?

Definitely! Its ease of preparation, crowd-pleasing flavors, and good holding texture make it an ideal dish for outdoor gatherings and potlucks.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe has all the qualities you want in a comforting and vibrant side dish: simple ingredients, fuss-free preparation, and a flavor profile that brings smiles to the table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it soon. Once you do, it might just become a staple in your recipe collection that you reach for year-round.

Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need