Save
Deviled egg macaroni salad is my must-make dish for picnics potlucks and sunny days when I want something crowd-pleasing and creamy Deviled eggs meet macaroni salad in this ultra-satisfying bowl with a rich tangy dressing bigger flavor from mustard and a crunchy bite from onions and celery It comes together fast and only gets better after chilling in the fridge
This salad showed up first at a neighbor’s July gathering and turned into my go-to for summer parties My family starts dipping in before it is fully chilled and always asks if there is extra for tomorrow
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: This pasta shape catches the creamy dressing well Choose high-quality dried pasta cook just until al dente and rinse well after boiling
- Hard-boiled eggs: Make sure they are fully cooked and cooled so they hold their shape and mix easily Chop them evenly for the best texture
- Mayonnaise: Choose a creamy type you love Look for full fat for flavor but light versions work too
- Mustard: Go for yellow or Dijon depending on your taste for a zesty sharp kick
- Vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness Use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a subtle tang
- Celery: Crunchy and fresh Choose firm stalks and dice small for even bites
- Red onion: Adds bite and color Dice finely to blend flavors into every spoonful
- Salt and pepper: Season generously and taste as you go Freshly ground pepper wakes up the whole salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt it well so the macaroni is flavorful Boil the elbow macaroni until just al dente about 8 to 10 minutes Drain then rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove starch and stop cooking so the pasta does not turn mushy
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the mayonnaise mustard and vinegar until completely blended and smooth This forms the creamy tangy base that makes the salad irresistible
- Mix in the Veggies and Eggs:
- Fold the diced celery and red onion into the dressing Coat them fully for extra crunch and flavor Add in the chopped hard-boiled eggs Gently stir so the eggs keep their shape but mix throughout
- Combine With Pasta:
- Tip the cooled macaroni into the bowl Now gently fold until every bite is coated with the creamy mixture and nothing is left dry Taste and adjust for salt and pepper to meet your preference
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl and place in the fridge for at least one hour longer if possible This gives time for the flavors to meld well giving every forkful a boost of taste Serve straight from the fridge for the most refreshing experience
Save
My favorite add-in is an extra sprinkle of paprika on top for a smokey edge Before every big picnic my youngest loves helping arrange sliced eggs and herbs as garnish making it a memory we look forward to all summer
Storage Tips
Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days It is at its very best on day two when the flavors have mingled more If serving at a picnic keep it on ice since it contains eggs and mayonnaise For potlucks I chill it in the serving bowl itself right up until mealtime
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use shell pasta or rotini instead of elbows and gluten-free pasta works equally well For a dairy-free version swap in avocado-oil mayo Skip eggs and add diced avocado for a creamy vegan option If celery is not on hand diced bell peppers or cucumber add great crunch A little fresh dill gives extra flavor without overpowering
Serving Suggestions
Deviled egg macaroni salad shines next to grilled meats classic barbecue or in a simple lunch alongside sandwiches If you want more color toss in halved cherry tomatoes or sprinkle with chives Serve the salad family-style with extra hard-boiled egg slices on top for a pretty touch It makes a fun addition to school lunchboxes too
Save
Cultural Context
Classic macaroni salad has roots in American home cooking and potluck traditions Deviled eggs are beloved at spring and summer gatherings so combining the two brings a sense of nostalgia Mixing Southern and picnic flavors guarantees broad appeal at all types of parties
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any small pasta such as shells or rotini will work well. Just cook until al dente so it holds up to the dressing.
- → How long does the salad stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it remains delicious for up to three days. Flavors may intensify with time.
- → Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative and omit any cheese additions to keep it dairy-free.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Mix in diced pickles, fresh herbs, or a splash of pickle juice for extra tang. Smoked paprika also enhances flavor.
- → Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes, preparing ahead allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier dish the next day. Chill until serving.