This Southern Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet pasta salad that’s a staple at cookouts, family gatherings, and Sunday dinners. It comes together with tender elbow macaroni, fresh crunchy veggies, and a flavorful mayonnaise-based dressing that’s quick to make.
This version skips the eggs and cheese, making it lighter but still full of that classic Southern flavor.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic Southern Flavor – Sweet pickle relish and yellow mustard give this salad its signature tangy-sweet taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
- No Eggs or Cheese – Perfect for those who prefer a lighter version without dairy or hard-boiled eggs.
- Versatile Side Dish – Works for holidays, picnics, barbecues, and potlucks.
Key Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni – The traditional pasta shape for Southern macaroni salad.
- Mayonnaise – Duke’s is the Southern favorite, but any good-quality mayo works.
- Yellow Mustard – Adds tanginess and color to the dressing.
- Sweet Pickle Relish – Gives that signature sweet-tangy bite.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens up the flavors.
- Fresh Veggies – Red onion, celery, and bell pepper add crunch and freshness.
👉🏾 See the full recipe card below for exact quantities and instructions.
Before You Make This
- Cook the macaroni just until al dente so it holds up after chilling in the dressing.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming gummy.
- For the best flavor, make it ahead and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
Helpful Swaps & Variations
- Swap sweet relish for dill relish if you prefer less sweetness.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.
📖 Recipe
Southern Macaroni Salad Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large pot or saucepan
- 1 large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s if you can find it)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (plus a splash of juice)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound macaroni and cook according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons mustard, 2 tablespoons relish, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 2 teaspoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon paprika until smooth.
- Add cooled macaroni, ½ cup onion, 1 cup celery, and 1 cup bell pepper to the dressing. Stir until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
Notes
- Rinsing the pasta keeps the salad from getting sticky and helps it absorb the dressing evenly.
- Sweet pickle relish adds that signature tangy-sweet Southern flavor, but you can use dill relish for a less sweet version.
- Perfect for making a day ahead so the flavors really settle in.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Southern Macaroni Salad with:
How to Store
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
- Not freezer-friendly.
FAQs
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when made ahead because the flavors have time to blend.
Yes, you can add diced ham, cooked shrimp, or shredded chicken for a heartier salad.
It stops the cooking process, keeps the pasta from sticking together, and cools it down for the dressing.
More Tasty Salad Recipes
If you love this Southern Macaroni Salad, be sure to save the recipe and share it with a friend. And don’t forget to check out more of my Southern Roots, Modern Plates recipes for your next gathering.
💌 From my kitchen to yours, happy eating!
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