Classic Macaroni Salad
Creamy, tangy, and full of crunch! This Classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect side dish for summer BBQs, potlucks, or weekday lunches. Make it ahead and let the flavors shine!
Easy Macaroni Salad.
When summer rolls around (or really, any time you need a reliable side dish that everyone will love) this macaroni salad is a top contender.
It’s packed with crisp veggies, chopped gherkins for a little zing and a creamy dressing that ties it all together.
Whether you're hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or prepping meals for the week, this Classic Macaroni Salad is a go-to you’ll find yourself making again and again.
This Classic Macaroni Salad is one of those timeless recipes that feels right at home on any table from backyard cookouts to Sunday dinner spreads.
It’s quick and easy to make, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time, and it's packed with texture thanks to crunchy celery, sweet bell pepper, and creamy hard-boiled eggs.
Best of all, it’s make-ahead friendly and tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Ingredients
8 oz macaroni noodles
½ cup gherkins, finely chopped
1 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 celery ribs, finely chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
For the Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp yellow mustard
2 tbsp white vinegar
½ tsp black pepper
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Directions
1. Cook the macaroni noodles al dente, following package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, pepper, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled noodles, gherkins, bell pepper, celery, red onion, and chopped eggs. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
4. Gently toss everything together until well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for best flavor.
5. Stir once more before serving. Enjoy!
If you love this macaroni salad, be sure to try other delicious options like Classic Potato Salad or a fresh Asparagus Goat Cheese Salad.
📌 Save this recipe card or pin it for later - and let me know in the comments if you try them! I’d love to see how yours turn out!