This macaroni salad is a fun and easy dish filled with creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta! It’s perfect for picnics or BBQs and ready in no time.
You can whip this up in a snap—just boil, mix, and chill! I like to sneak in a bit of extra mustard for a zesty kick. It always disappears fast when I serve it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is a classic choice for macaroni salad. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or use whole wheat for extra fiber. I love using small shells as a fun twist on texture!
Mayonnaise: The base of this salad! If you want a lighter option, swap in Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a creamy, vegan-friendly version. Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly.
Sour Cream: For richness, but you can substitute plain yogurt or even a dairy-free option if needed. It balances the mayo nicely.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tang! You could switch to white vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile. Both work well to keep the salad fresh.
Vegetables: Celery, carrots, bell peppers, and onions bring crunch and color. Customize with veggies like peas or sweet corn. I often add a handful of chopped pickles for extra zing!
How Do You Make Sure Your Macaroni Salad is Creamy and Delicious?
To achieve that creamy texture, making sure your noodles are cooled before mixing is key. Here’s how to handle it:
- After boiling, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water until cool. This stops the cooking and helps it absorb less dressing.
- Mix your creamy dressing separately until smooth. The secret is to blend it well before adding the pasta to ensure every piece gets coated.
- Finally, don’t skip chilling it in the fridge! This lets all the flavors come together beautifully. The taste gets better after a few hours.
Guy Fieri’s Easy Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup carrot, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- Optional: smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick
Time Needed:
This easy macaroni salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and requires at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. In just over an hour, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which typically takes about 7 to 8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy mixture, making sure every nook and cranny is covered.
4. Add Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the crunch! Fold in the finely diced celery, carrot, red bell pepper, and red onion, making sure they’re well distributed throughout the salad.
5. Season to Taste:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne for that extra zing!
6. Chill and Enjoy:
Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This will help all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out and give it a quick stir. Serve it chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of extra paprika if you like a little flair!
Enjoy your creamy, zesty macaroni salad, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, any pasta shape works well in this salad. Try shells, fusilli, or even short penne for a fun twist. Just be sure to cook it al dente to maintain a good texture.
Can I Make This Macaroni Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. There are plenty of options available that taste great and keep the creaminess intact!
How Long Does Leftover Macaroni Salad Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some of the dressing may thicken or separate while sitting.
Can I Prepare This Salad the Night Before?
Definitely! Making the macaroni salad the night before is a great idea. It allows the flavors to develop and meld together for an even tastier dish. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, and you might want to add a splash of dressing if it looks a bit dry.
