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Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad (Crowd-Favorite Style)

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450
A delicious and creamy macaroni salad perfect for gatherings, combining tender pasta with a sweet and tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Dressing

  • 2 cups mayonnaise
  • 1.33 cups white sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 cups distilled white vinegar
  • 5 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 3 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper

Vegetables

  • 4 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 2 green bell peppers seeded and chopped
  • 0.5 cups grated carrot (optional)
  • 4 tbsp chopped pimento peppers (optional)

Optional ingredients

  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika or pickle juice (for extra zip)
  • chopped hard-boiled eggs or sweet relish optional chopped hard-boiled eggs or sweet relish (for a Southern-style spin)

Instructions 

  • Cook pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
  • Mix dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Add veggies: Stir in celery, onion, bell pepper, carrot, and pimentos.
  • Combine: Toss cooled macaroni with the dressing and vegetables until evenly coated.
  • Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Before serving, give it a stir and optionally top with paprika or parsley.

Notes

For best flavor, refrigerate for several hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Calories: 450kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Creamy, Crowd, macaroni