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Classic Macaroni Salad - A Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or small shells)
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise (use good-quality)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1/3 cup dill pickles or sweet pickles, finely chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional but classic)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Method
 

  1. Salt and boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until just past al dente, about 7–8 minutes. You want it tender but not mushy.
  2. Rinse and cool: Drain and immediately rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Shake off excess water well so the dressing doesn’t get diluted.
  3. Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Prep the mix-ins: Finely chop the celery, bell pepper, red onion, and pickles. If using eggs, peel and chop them. Keep pieces small so they blend nicely with the pasta.
  5. Combine: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Fold in the celery, bell pepper, onion, pickles, eggs, and herbs. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the dressing cling to the pasta.
  7. Final season and serve: Before serving, stir the salad and taste again. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or vinegar if it needs a lift. If it looks dry, stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of milk.