Easy Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Craving a classic side dish that’s incredibly easy to make and bursting with creamy flavor? This Easy Creamy Macaroni Salad recipe is exactly what you need! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a delightful addition to any meal, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together in a flash.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (good quality)
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup green bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
2. While the macaroni cools, prepare your vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped celery, diced red onion, diced green bell pepper (if using), and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the vegetables and eggs. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture.
5. Gently fold all the ingredients together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
6. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
7. Before serving, give the macaroni salad a good stir. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve chilled.