Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions, rinse with cold water, and set aside. (Scroll below to the printable recipe card for details and measurements.) You’ll need just around an hour to bring it all together, though I recommend extra time to allow it to chill before serving. Making this classic macaroni salad is simple and takes just a few steps. Crispy bacon crumbles are also a yummy addition. For a heartier salad, you can mix in chopped ham or cooked chicken. A splash of hot sauce can easily add some heat. We love this macaroni salad as is, but there are many variations you can make to customize it according to your preference.

Paprika – Completely optional, but a nice touch at the end.

Garlic powder – Garlic ties all the flavors together.

Salt & pepper – A pinch of each for taste.

Dijon mustard – A splash of dijon mustard adds depth to the dish.

Granulated sugar – Lends sweetness and balances out the vinegar.Sweet pickle juice – The juice from the sweet gherkins will work.Sour cream – Adds a little bit of tang to the base.Hard-boiled eggs – Make perfect hard boiled eggs ahead of time so that they are able to cool.Cheddar cheese – I like to cube my cheese into pea-sized pieces.

Sweet gherkins – These have a sweet, but still snappy taste that adds to the dish.Red onion – Green onion will also work, if you prefer the flavor.Celery – Adds a bit of crunch to every bite.Red bell pepper – Adds a pop of color and flavor.Dried macaroni pasta – It’s not macaroni salad without macaroni!.(Scroll below to the printable recipe card for details and measurements.) Macaroni Salad Ingredients While the ingredients are simple, each one brings something fantastic to the dish, adding layers of flavor. I stick to simple ingredients and a creamy, slightly tangy dressing. Macaroni Salad RecipeĪs with any classic recipe, there are many variations and it seems like each family has their own. You can easily prepare it the night before and have it ready to go the next day. No need to rush to put something together at the last minute. Since it’s a great dish to make in advance, this macaroni salad with egg fits perfectly into a lazy summer day schedule. Sometimes we were the guests arriving with a heaping bowl, and sometimes it was someone else bringing it, but it was always there. Is there anything that says “summer potluck” quite like a classic macaroni salad? From the time I was little, this salad with elbow macaroni, egg, and a creamy dressing has been a staple at every potluck or summer BBQ. Looking for more potluck ideas? Check out our Creamy Cucumber Salad and Watermelon Salad. Perfect for summer potlucks and great for making in advance. With simple ingredients and a homemade creamy dressing, this Macaroni Salad with Egg is truly a tried and true recipe.

Best macaroni salad