Print

Creamy Budget Macaroni Salad Recipe Easy Flavorful for a Crowd

creamy budget macaroni salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy, budget-friendly macaroni salad perfect for potlucks and large gatherings. This easy recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced small
  • 3 stalks green onions, sliced thin
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
  • 3 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until just tender but still firm (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to cool it quickly and stop cooking. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Finely chop the celery, red bell pepper, and green onions. Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs roughly if using.
  5. Add the chopped veggies, eggs, and optional pickle relish to the bowl with pasta. Pour the dressing over and gently fold to coat all ingredients evenly without mashing the pasta or eggs.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3 or more, to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
  7. Before serving, taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed. Stir gently before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Rinse pasta well under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Use full-fat mayonnaise for best creaminess. Chill the salad for at least 1 hour to meld flavors. Mix gently to avoid breaking pasta and eggs. Adjust seasoning after chilling as flavors may dull. For vegan version, use vegan mayo and skip eggs or add diced avocado.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, budget-friendly salad, potluck salad, easy pasta salad, crowd-pleaser, picnic salad

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/creamy-budget-macaroni-salad-recipe-easy-flavorful-for-a-crowd/