Name: Classic Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 1 cup mayonnaise; ⅔ cup white sugar, or to taste; ¼ cup distilled white vinegar; 2 ½ tablespoons prepared yellow mustard; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 large onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped; ¼ cup grated carrot (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped pimento peppers (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A timeless side dish perfect for any occasion
Easy to prepare with simple pantry and fridge staples
Creamy, sweet, and tangy dressing that balances beautifully with the pasta and veggies
Versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste
Great for making ahead since flavors improve as it chills

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
⅔ cup white sugar, or to taste
¼ cup distilled white vinegar
2 ½ tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
1 ½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
¼ cup grated carrot (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped pimento peppers (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the bowl and stir to coat with the dressing.
Mix in the celery, onion, bell pepper, and, if desired, the carrot and pimento peppers.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Stir well before serving chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 servings. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, with an additional 2 hours of chilling time required before serving.

Variations

Use half mayonnaise and half sour cream for a tangier, lighter dressing.
Swap yellow mustard with Dijon or spicy brown mustard for a bolder flavor.
Add hard-boiled eggs for extra richness and protein.
Include peas or sweet corn for added sweetness and texture.
Try red bell pepper instead of green for a slightly sweeter taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly. This dish should be served cold and is not meant for reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this macaroni salad a day ahead?

Yes, it’s even better the next day once the flavors have blended.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, small shells, ditalini, or rotini also work well.

How do I keep the pasta from absorbing too much dressing?

Make sure to cool the pasta completely before mixing it with the dressing.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar to taste or use a sugar substitute.

What vegetables can I substitute?

You can use cucumbers, peas, corn, or red peppers in place of some of the listed vegetables.

Is this macaroni salad gluten-free?

Not unless you use gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as mayonnaise-based dressings separate after thawing.

How long can macaroni salad sit out?

It should not sit out longer than 2 hours, or 1 hour if outdoors in hot weather.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, but it will make the salad a bit sweeter and tangier.

How do I make it creamier?

Simply add a little more mayonnaise before serving if it looks too dry.

Conclusion

Classic Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s both simple to prepare and endlessly versatile. Its creamy dressing, tender pasta, and crisp vegetables make it the perfect side dish for cookouts, family dinners, or holiday gatherings. Make a big batch and watch it disappear at your next event.