Chef John’s Classic Macaroni Salad is the perfect creamy pasta salad for summer barbecues, picnics, or casual lunches. Packed with crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and tender elbow macaroni, this deli-style favorite is always a hit. Whether served alongside smoky ribs, grilled chicken, or a simple hot dog, this crowd-pleasing salad gets better the longer it chills.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Additional Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Total Time: 5 hrs
Servings: 12
Why You’ll Love This Classic Macaroni Salad
- Creamy, tangy, and flavorful
- Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or make-ahead lunches
- Loaded with fresh, crunchy vegetables
- Easy to prepare and stores well overnight
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise (optional)
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (or more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon white sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup finely diced celery
- ¾ cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ½ cup chopped green onions (white and light green parts)
- ¼ cup diced jalapeño pepper
- ¼ cup diced poblano pepper
For the Macaroni
- 1 (16-ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon water (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
How to Make Chef John’s Classic Macaroni Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne until smooth. Whisk in the sugar, then stir in celery, red bell pepper, carrot, green onions, jalapeño, and poblano peppers. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the macaroni.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta but do not rinse—it helps the dressing cling better.
Step 3: Cool the Pasta
Let the macaroni rest in a colander for about 5 minutes, shaking occasionally to release steam. Transfer to a large bowl and toss to separate. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature for 10–15 minutes. The surface should feel slightly sticky.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Dressing
Pour the chilled vegetable dressing over the cooled pasta. Stir gently until the macaroni is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 5: Refresh Before Serving
Just before serving, give the macaroni salad a good stir. If needed, mix in a tablespoon of water and an extra spoonful of mayonnaise to restore creaminess and freshen up the look.
Serving Suggestions
- Best served cold, making it ideal for warm-weather gatherings.
- Serve alongside grilled meats, burgers, ribs, or BBQ tofu.
- Excellent as part of a meal prep lunch—add grilled chicken or beans for protein.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving and add a splash of water or extra mayo if it seems dry.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 295
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
- Sodium: 508mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Vitamin C: 17mg
- Iron: 2mg
- Potassium: 170mg