Description

Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and irresistibly flavorful classic macaroni salad with elbow pasta, a zesty dressing made from mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and fresh chopped vegetables. This recipe is easy to make, forgiving, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or anytime you want a delicious, chilled pasta salad with a fun twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni
Salt, for boiling water

Dressing and Mix-ins

1 cup mayonnaise (plus extra 1–2 tbsp for extra creaminess)
1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
1/4 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
Optional additions: finely diced red or green bell pepper, peas

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, meaning tender but still with a slight bite. Drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse under cold water to halt cooking and prevent the macaroni from sticking together. Drain well.
Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, finely chopped celery, and onion. Add apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or stir thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and smooth, ensuring all flavors are well incorporated.
Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the well-drained macaroni to the dressing bowl. Gently toss to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy dressing. If using, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs and any optional add-ins like bell pepper or peas. Mix thoroughly but gently.
Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though a few hours or overnight is best to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Touches and Serve: Before serving, stir the salad once more. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of apple cider vinegar if desired. Sprinkle a light dusting of paprika on top for color and presentation. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

For extra creaminess, add an additional tablespoon or two of mayonnaise.
If you prefer less sweetness, substitute sweet pickle relish with finely chopped dill pickles and adjust sugar or vinegar accordingly.
Add diced red or green bell peppers or peas for added crunch and color.
This salad can be made ahead and tastes better after chilling overnight.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If the salad thickens too much after refrigeration, stir in a splash of milk or extra mayo to loosen it up before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad, macaroni salad, pasta salad, creamy macaroni salad, tangy pasta salad, potluck recipe