Print

Guy Fieri’s Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe

4.6 from 104 reviews

Guy Fieri’s Macaroni Salad is a creamy, flavorful classic side dish featuring tender macaroni pasta tossed with a rich mayonnaise-based dressing, crisp vegetables, and a blend of seasonings. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a refreshing accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
  3. Mix in Vegetables: Add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and sweet pickle relish to the dressing. Stir until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
  4. Toss the Salad: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and vegetables. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the dressing and the ingredients are well mixed.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the macaroni salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly cooked pasta that’s been cooled to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Feel free to add chopped hard-boiled eggs for a richer texture and flavor.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead for enhanced flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your desired creaminess.
  • Serve chilled for a refreshing side dish, especially during warm weather.

Keywords: Macaroni Salad, Pasta Salad, Guy Fieri Recipe, Classic American Side Dish, Summer Salad