macaroni and cheese salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best macaroni and cheese salad recipe

I’m thrilled to share with you my family’s favorite macaroni and cheese salad recipe, which has been a staple at our gatherings for years. This comforting dish is a twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, with the addition of crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing. The origins of macaroni and cheese salad are unclear, but it’s likely a variation of the Italian pasta salad, where pasta is mixed with vegetables, cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing.

The result is a satisfying and healthy meal that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or everyday meals. The texture of this salad is one of its most appealing features – the al dente pasta pairs perfectly with the crunchy vegetables, while the creamy cheese adds depth and richness. When you take a bite, the flavors meld together in harmony, with each component complementing the others.

It’s truly a delight to eat! The key to making this salad is using high-quality ingredients, such as real cheese and fresh vegetables. I also like to use different types of pasta, such as shells or elbow macaroni, to add visual interest.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings – add some diced ham or bacon for added smokiness or some chopped fresh herbs for added freshness. This salad is also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish or add it as a main course. It’s also an excellent make-ahead option – simply prepare the ingredients the night before and assemble the salad just before serving.

My family loves this recipe so much that we’ve even started calling it ‘Mac ‘n Cheese Salad’ – it’s become an integral part of our mealtime traditions. As an added bonus, this salad is surprisingly healthy for its rich taste – it’s packed with fiber from the pasta and vegetables, as well as protein from the cheese. The dressing adds a tangy zing without overpowering the other flavors.

Overall, this macaroni and cheese salad recipe is a winner in our household – I’m confident it will become a staple in yours too.

Macaroni and Cheese Salad

4.8 from 677 votes

A creamy and tangy macaroni and cheese salad perfect for picnics and potlucks. This dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce and crunchy vegetables.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt
Water for boiling

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Salad

1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon salt and the elbow macaroni, then cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
6Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
8Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
9Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
10In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, diced celery, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped parsley.
11In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well blended.
12Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
13Add the mayonnaise mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
14Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Large mixing bowl
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise. Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for extra protein.

Watch Video Of How Macaroni and Cheese Salad Works

This macaroni and cheese salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution. It’s easy to make ahead of time and serves well as both a side dish or main course.

For storage ideas, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months – just thaw when needed. When reheating leftovers (which you shouldn’t really need to do!)

, simply let them come to room temperature first before serving again. You can also serve cold straight from the fridge if that suits your taste preferences better.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni and Cheese Salad

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

The best type of pasta to use is one that holds up well to the creamy sauce and crunchy vegetables. Elbow macaroni or shells work beautifully.

Q: Can I customize this recipe by adding other ingredients?

Of course! Feel free to add diced ham or bacon for added smokiness or chopped fresh herbs for added freshness.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Q: Can I reheat this salad?

No need to reheat – simply let it come to room temperature before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have any Greek yogurt on hand?

No problem! You can substitute sour cream or mayonnaise instead.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Sure thing! Prepare all the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.

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