Enjoy this traditional macaroni salad at your next summer bbq.

This easy macaroni salad recipe is the perfect side dish to make ahead of time. When you're ready to eat, pull it from the fridge and enjoy.
 

  

TRADITIONAL MACARONI SALAD

This easy classic macaroni salad recipe is my go to side dish for burgers, hot dogs, or anything made on the grill. 

↓ ↓ ↓ PIN IT ↓ ↓ ↓ 

 

↑ ↑ ↑ PIN IT ↑ ↑ ↑

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please see my full disclosure policy for details. 

INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR DELICIOUS MACARONI SALAD

• elbow macaroni noodles
• hard-boiled eggs
• celery
• onion
• mayo
• salad dressing
• sugar
• vinegar
• salt
• mustard
• black pepper
• sweet pickle relish

Optional Favorite Add-Ins

I prefer my mac salad very plain with the simple ingredients above. BUT, don't let that stop you with experimenting by adding other ingredients, including colorful veggies.

• red pepper
• green pepper
• green olives
• red onion
• shredded carrots
• sweet pickles
• dill pickles
• a can of tiny shrimp (1 can for a double batch)

You can also replace some of the ingredients for their flavorful counterparts. For example, try dijon mustard instead of plain. Or apple cider vinegar.

HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC MACARONI SALAD

This is the best macaroni salad recipe. It's creamy with a tangy dressing that's familiar in a classic macaroni salad.

Get started making the hard boiled eggs. There are two methods I use to make them.

Conventional hard boiled egg method: Add eggs to a pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil. Boil for 13 minutes. Then place eggs immediately in ice water.

Instant pot hard boiled egg method: Place trivet in the instant pot. Add eggs and 1 cup of water. Cook on high pressure 8 minutes. Quick release the steam. Then immediately place eggs in ice water.

Meanwhile cook the elbow macaroni. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. You want it to be al dente. Don't overcook, you don't want really soft noodles.

Run the noodles under cool water. This helps bring the temperature down and reduces the chill time later.

Drain thoroughly and add the noodles to a bowl.

Next add the chopped eggs, celery and onion. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well.

Allow to chill in the fridge for 30-60 minutes before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

MORE SIDE DISH RECIPES

• Classic Pasta Salad Recipe
• Egg Salad
• Cowboy Caviar
• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
• 30+ Fruit Salad Recipes

Don't forget to pin it!!