Dinner

Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad Recipe

ByAndria Russo December 12, 2025December 12, 2025

Introduction

Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful twist on a classic side dish. Perfect for potlucks or BBQs, it combines tender macaroni with a zesty dressing and crunchy veggies. This recipe is easy to make and sure to please a crowd.

A close-up view of a bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad, showing three main layers: small pasta pieces coated in a thick white dressing, chopped celery chunks with a fresh light green color mixed evenly throughout, and dark red pepper flakes sprinkled on top adding specks of color and texture. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken from an angle that highlights the creamy texture and mix of ingredients with a blurred light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup sweet pickle relish
½ cup finely chopped celery
¼ cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
Paprika, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. Let drain thoroughly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, chopped celery, chopped onion, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or stir vigorously until the dressing is creamy and well blended.
Step 3: Add the drained macaroni to the dressing and gently toss to coat every piece thoroughly. If using, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs now.
Step 4: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. For best flavor, chill for several hours or overnight to allow the ingredients to meld.
Step 5: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with paprika for a colorful finish if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise for a creamier texture.
Adjust the tanginess by adding a splash more apple cider vinegar if needed.
Include finely diced red or green bell peppers for crunch and color.
Stir in sweet peas or chopped ham or chicken for variety and heartiness.
If you prefer less sweetness, substitute finely chopped dill pickles for the relish but balance with less sugar or a touch more vinegar.

Storage

Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It may thicken as it chills; stir well before serving and add a splash of milk or more mayonnaise if it seems too dry. Serve cold for best flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad, showing about two layers of elbow macaroni coated in a thick, pale white dressing with small black pepper specks scattered throughout. Mixed in are chunks of fresh, light green celery, cut into small, rough cubes, adding a crisp texture and color contrast. The salad looks rich and well-mixed, sitting on a white marbled texture surface with two blurred clear glasses in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this Guy Fieri macaroni salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing it at least an hour ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, make it a few hours or even the night before serving.

What are some good variations for this macaroni salad?

You can customize it easily by adding diced red bell pepper, sweet peas, or protein options like chopped ham or chicken. The optional hard-boiled eggs also add great texture and flavor.