Southern Style Macaroni Salad

Name: Southern Style Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups elbow macaroni; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 cup diced celery; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1/2 cup diced pickles; 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Southern Style Macaroni Salad, especially during warm weather gatherings. This creamy, tangy dish recalls memories of family picnics where this salad was always a hit. The combination of tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With this recipe, I can whip up a delightful side dish that complements any barbecue or potluck. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it a favorite in my kitchen year-round.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:58:28.525Z

When I first encountered Southern Style Macaroni Salad, I was struck by its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. I experimented with various ingredients but found that the classic combination of hard-boiled eggs, diced pickles, and crisp celery works wonders. The key is to let it chill for at least an hour before serving, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

During one family gathering, I served this dish alongside grilled chicken, and it was a hit! Everyone raved about the creaminess, and the slight tang from the pickle relish made it irresistible. Next time, I’m going to try adding some diced bell peppers for extra crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and flavorful with tangy undertones
Perfectly combines crunch and softness in every bite
An easy make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day

The Importance of Cooling Your Macaroni

One critical step that often gets overlooked in macaroni salad preparation is the cooling process for the pasta. After cooking your elbow macaroni to al dente, rinsing it under cold water isn't just a suggestion—it's essential. This method stops the cooking process immediately, preventing the pasta from becoming mushy. Aim to cool the macaroni for at least 5 minutes after rinsing, allowing it to reach room temperature before mixing it with your other ingredients. This helps maintain the texture that makes the salad enjoyable.

Another tip I’ve learned over the years is the timing for cooling your pasta. If you’re in a hurry, dividing the macaroni into smaller batches while rinsing can speed up the cooling process. This ensures that when you combine the pasta with the creamy dressing, it won’t absorb too much moisture, which could result in a soggy salad later on.

The Role of Dressing in Flavor Development

The dressing in this Southern Style Macaroni Salad is the heart of the dish, and every ingredient plays a significant role in crafting that perfect tangy flavor. Mayonnaise provides the creamy base, while sour cream adds a bit of tartness that balances the richness. The apple cider vinegar cuts through the fat, giving the salad a fresh kick. Be sure to whisk these ingredients thoroughly until they achieve a silky texture; this step ensures that every piece of pasta and vegetable is evenly coated—no dry bites here.

Furthermore, the Dijon mustard adds a subtle depth with its piquant notes. If you're looking to experiment, consider swapping the Dijon for honey mustard for a sweeter profile or leaving it out altogether for a milder taste. Just keep in mind, any changes to the dressing's composition can affect the overall flavor balance, so adjust accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Southern Style Macaroni Salad is how well it keeps. If you’re prepping for a barbecue or potluck, I recommend making the salad a day in advance. This resting period allows the flavors to fully meld together, resulting in an even more cohesive taste when you serve it. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to preserve freshness in the refrigerator.

When storing the salad, it can last up to 3–5 days in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the dressing over time, which can change its texture. If you find it too dry on the second or third day, simply mix in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or sour cream to revive its creamy consistency without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

For the Macaroni Salad

3 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup diced pickles
3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and well combined.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooled macaroni, diced celery, red onion, pickles, and chopped hard-boiled eggs to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.

Season and Chill

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also customize the salad with your favorite veggies or herbs.

Customizing Your Salad

Customization is key when it comes to macaroni salad! Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins to give it a personal touch. Chopped bell peppers, green onions, or even crumbled bacon can all bring new flavors to the table. If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider incorporating some peas or shredded carrots, which not only enhance the flavor but also add color and visual appeal to the dish.

Vegetarians can easily enjoy this recipe by ensuring that no animal products are present in the ingredients, such as using vegan mayonnaise. Another great option is to swap out hard-boiled eggs for diced avocado, which adds creaminess while keeping the dish plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

This Southern Style Macaroni Salad shines at any gathering, but it pairs especially well with grilled meats. Consider serving it alongside barbecue chicken, ribs, or even a hearty veggie burger. The rich and creamy texture complements the smoky flavors beautifully, making it a hit that will have everyone coming back for more.

For a more casual brunch, serve it alongside sandwiches or wraps. It's refreshing taste makes it the perfect side dish to balance out richer fare. You can also use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fun twist!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your macaroni salad is too watery, it’s likely that the pasta absorbed a lot of the dressing. To remedy this, add in more mayonnaise or sour cream—start with a tablespoon at a time until the desired creaminess is achieved. Another common mistake is overcooking the macaroni, which can lead to a mushy texture. Always keep an eye on the cooking time and test the macaroni a minute before the package suggests.

On the other hand, if your salad seems too dry, stirring in a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can brighten the flavors while adding moisture. Remember, small adjustments can significantly impact your dish, so trust your palate as you make these changes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours or the day before allows the flavors to develop even more.

→ How long will the macaroni salad last in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cooked bacon for extra flavor!