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Classic Southern Macaroni Salad Recipe with Creamy Mustard Dressing

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A tangy, creamy macaroni salad with a mustard dressing that balances sweet and savory flavors, perfect for Southern cookouts and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise, preferably full-fat
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) yellow mustard (substitute spicy brown mustard if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • ½ cup (120ml) sweet pickles, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon (2g) onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon (2g) celery seed

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (200g) of elbow macaroni and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off excess water.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons (30ml) yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar, ½ teaspoon (2g) onion powder, and ½ teaspoon (2g) celery seed until smooth and creamy.
  4. Finely chop 2 celery stalks, ½ cup (120ml) sweet pickles, and 2 hard-boiled eggs.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, chopped celery, pickles, and eggs. Pour the dressing over and gently fold together until well coated.
  6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, starting with ½ teaspoon salt and adjusting as needed.
  7. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Before serving, stir gently and taste. Add more mustard or vinegar if a brighter zing is desired.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente and rinse under cold water to prevent mushiness and gummy texture. Chill at least 1 hour for best flavor. Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free option. Add jalapeño or hot sauce for a spicy kick. Add fresh herbs or protein for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, southern macaroni salad, creamy mustard dressing, side dish, potluck recipe, picnic salad, elbow macaroni salad

Find it online: https://piperplate.com/classic-southern-macaroni-salad-recipe-with-creamy-mustard-dressing-easy-homemade-side-dish/