13 Delicious Macaroni Salad Recipes You Need to Try

Macaroni salad is a classic dish that brings together tender pasta, creamy dressing, and a mix of crunchy vegetables for a refreshing side that’s easy to whip up. Whether it’s for a backyard barbecue or a picnic, this salad is all about comfort and convenience, making it a delightful addition to any spread.

Bacon Ranch Macaroni Salad

Bacon Ranch Macaroni Salad is a delightful blend of creamy pasta and zesty ranch seasoning, enhanced by crunchy bits of crispy bacon. This dish combines textures and flavors that are both satisfying and familiar, making it a go-to for any gathering or potluck.

It’s easy to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. The tangy ranch dressing pairs wonderfully with the smokiness of the bacon, creating a dish that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 3 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, chopped bacon, green onions, and cheddar cheese.
3. Add the ranch dressing to the bowl and mix until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Vegan Macaroni Salad

This vegan macaroni salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a tasty and satisfying dish. With its creamy dressing and fresh vegetables, it’s refreshing and perfect for warm days or potlucks. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and steps!

The subtle crunch of the peppers combined with the smoothness of the macaroni offers a delightful bite. This recipe is not only vegan but also customizable; you can add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own. Whether you’re a vegan or just looking to enjoy a lighter meal, this salad is a delicious choice.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, black olives, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Mediterranean Macaroni Salad

Looking for a fresh twist on traditional macaroni salad? This Mediterranean version is packed with vibrant flavors and ingredients, making it a delightful side for any meal. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light lunch.

The combination of pasta, juicy tomatoes, savory olives, and creamy feta cheese creates a burst of tastes that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cherry tomatoes, black olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Mediterranean macaroni salad chilled!

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna macaroni salad is a delightful dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a simple family meal. With a mix of tender pasta, flaky tuna, and vibrant veggies, it brings a satisfying crunch and creamy texture that’s refreshing and fulfilling. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when unexpected guests arrive.

The flavors blend wonderfully, and you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it with a bit of zing from some mustard or a sprinkle of herbs for freshness, this salad can be tailored for everyone. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, thawed peas, diced red bell pepper, and celery.
3. Add the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the other ingredients.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is coated evenly.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your tuna macaroni salad!

Tangy Mustard Macaroni Salad

Tangy Mustard Macaroni Salad is a delightful twist on the classic side dish that brings a zesty flavor to your table. The combination of macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy mustard dressing creates a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare. This salad is not only simple to make but also perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick lunch option.

The mustard gives the salad a lively kick, while the crisp vegetables add texture and freshness. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without feeling weighed down. Plus, you can customize it with ingredients you love!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cherry tomatoes, celery, red onion, and bell peppers. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good toss and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your tangy macaroni salad!

Vegetable-Packed Macaroni Salad

This vegetable-packed macaroni salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish. It’s colorful, crunchy, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it a perfect addition to any picnic or barbecue. With a mix of tender pasta and a variety of vibrant vegetables, each bite is refreshing and satisfying.

Simple to make, this salad comes together in no time. You can customize it with your favorite veggies and dressings, creating a dish that suits your taste. Whether enjoyed as a side or a light meal, it’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, green peas, red bell pepper, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Toss the Salad: Add the cooled macaroni to the vegetable mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently until well combined.
4. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Give the salad a good stir before serving, and enjoy!

Spicy Southwest Macaroni Salad

Spicy Southwest Macaroni Salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish, bringing a kick of flavor that’s both zesty and refreshing. With its mix of pasta, beans, and vibrant vegetables, this salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick weeknight meal.

It’s simple to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The combination of creamy dressing with a hint of spice makes every bite enjoyable, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the soft pasta.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn, drained
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (adjust for heat preference)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeños.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Classic Creamy Macaroni Salad

Classic creamy macaroni salad is a delightful dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight meal. The flavors are comforting and familiar, with a hint of tanginess that keeps each bite refreshing.

Making this macaroni salad is quite simple, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. The creamy dressing is typically made with mayonnaise and a touch of mustard, making it both luscious and satisfying. Toss in some crunchy vegetables for texture, and you have a dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to chill.
2. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooled macaroni, chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish to the dressing. Stir gently until everything is well coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, sprinkle paprika on top for a colorful finish.

Fruit and Nut Macaroni Salad

Fruit and Nut Macaroni Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional pasta salad. Combining sweet grapes with crunchy walnuts, this dish offers a refreshing taste that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch option.

The creamy dressing coats each macaroni and complements the fruit’s sweetness beautifully. Each bite is a great balance of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be enjoyed by all. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, grapes, celery, and walnuts.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Asian-Inspired Macaroni Salad

Asian-inspired macaroni salad brings a delightful twist to the classic dish. It combines the comforting texture of macaroni with vibrant flavors of sesame, soy, and fresh vegetables. This salad is light, tangy, and perfect for picnics or as a side dish at gatherings. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, taking just a few minutes to prepare.

With crunchy vegetables and a savory dressing, this macaroni salad is not only satisfying but also packed with color and nutrition. It’s a fun way to enjoy a familiar favorite while exploring new tastes. Give it a try, and you might just find a new go-to recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup cooked ground meat (optional)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, green onions, and ground meat if using.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cheesy Macaroni Salad

Cheesy macaroni salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of cheese. This recipe is creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, making it an excellent side for any gathering or a quick lunch option. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying it than cooking!

This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a simple family meal. The combination of different cheeses adds a wonderful depth to the flavor, while the fresh herbs provide a nice pop of color and taste. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just looking for a tasty salad, this cheesy macaroni salad will definitely satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta.
2. Mix the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, cubed mozzarella, chopped bell peppers, and red onion to the bowl. Mix everything together until well coated with the dressing.
4. Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like it tangier, you can add a bit more vinegar or mustard.
5. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Salad

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Salad brings a fun twist to traditional pasta salads. It combines tender macaroni with shredded chicken, tossed in a spicy Buffalo sauce that adds a vibrant kick. This dish is creamy, zesty, and perfect for summer picnics or game day gatherings.

Not only is it packed with flavor, but this recipe is also simple to whip up, making it a go-to option for busy cooks. Toss in some green onions for a fresh crunch, and you’ve got a dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Buffalo wing sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, celery, and green onions to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve: Serve cold, garnished with additional green onions or a drizzle of Buffalo sauce on top, if desired.

Curried Macaroni Salad

Curried macaroni salad is a delightful twist on the traditional pasta salad. It combines the comforting texture of macaroni with a hint of spice, making each bite a little adventure. The flavors dance together, thanks to the warm, earthy notes of curry and the sweetness from ingredients like raisins or apples. This dish is not only tasty but also super easy to whip up, perfect for a quick lunch or a side at your next gathering.

This salad is versatile and can be customized to your liking. You can add veggies like peas or bell peppers for crunch, or even toss in some protein like cooked chicken or chickpeas. Whether served cold or at room temperature, it’s a great option for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped apples
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and curry powder. Stir until well blended.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni, red onion, celery, raisins, and chopped apples. Pour the curry dressing over the top and mix until everything is evenly coated.
4. Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the curry powder to your preference for a spicier kick if desired.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!