Description

This Perfect Creamy Macaroni Pasta Salad brings together tender elbow macaroni, crisp vegetables, and a luscious tangy dressing in every bite. Whether it’s for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or a quick make-ahead meal, this crowd-pleasing salad is creamy, colorful, and bursting with fresh flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled macaroni, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, peas, and cheddar cheese.
Pour dressing over the salad and gently mix to coat everything evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
Before serving, stir salad again and top with chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

To tame sharp red onion flavor, soak chopped onion in cold water for 5 minutes and drain well.
For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of mayo or sour cream just before serving if the salad feels dry.
Customize with add-ins like pickled relish, jalapeños, or diced ham for a twist.