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Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad

My Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad is a creamy and crunchy classic. It is perfect for any gathering or summer BBQ.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Mains, Sides
Cuisine: American
Keyword: 60-Minutes or Less, Cold Salad, Cold Sides, Easy, Macaroni, Macaroni Salad, Make-Ahead, Pasta Salad, Sides, Simple
Servings: 12
Calories: 307kcal
Author: Eva Filer

Equipment

  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Large Bowl

Ingredients

DRESSING:

  • 1 cup mayo
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup pickle juice
  • ½ tablespoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground pepper

SALAD:

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni dry measurement, cooked and drained
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 green pepper chopped
  • 1 red pepper chopped
  • 3 hard boiled eggs chopped
  • 3 dill pickles chopped

Instructions

  • Cook your pasta, if it is not already, in a large pot and rinse cool water to stop the cooking process; but do not make it cold. If you have cooked pasta, allow it to come to room temperature for a better mix.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add your mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, pickle juice, dry mustard, salt and pepper and whisk well.
  • Add strained pasta, celery, bell peppers, eggs, and pickles and toss until fully combined.
  • To thin it out additionally, if needed, add more pickle juice or milk, as desired.
  • Serve right away or chill for an hour to allow the flavors to really build.

Notes

  • Don't Overcook the Pasta: Slightly firm pasta holds its texture much better after chilling.
  • Mix While the Pasta Is Slightly Warm: We find the dressing coats the noodles more evenly when the pasta isn't completely cold.
  • Ultra Creamy Texture: If you're making the salad ahead, mix it with a little milk before serving to make it extra creamy.
  • Give It Time to Chill: The flavor improves significantly after a couple of hours in the refrigerator.
  • Cold Rinse: Cold water stops the cooking process and helps it cool quickly.
  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Make Ahead: This is one of those recipes we often make the night before. The flavors continue to develop and taste even better the next day.
  • Before Serving: If the salad thickens after refrigeration, stir in a small spoonful of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or milk to freshen it up.

Nutrition

Calories: 307kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 547mg | Potassium: 204mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 485IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 1mg
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