Grandma Bettys Killer Macaroni Salad
Recipe Introduction
Ready for the Best Macaroni Salad Ever?
Ever wondered why some macaroni salad recipes just sing ? Honestly, I did too. This macaroni salad recipe easy is inspired by Grandma Betty's classic, but I've tweaked it for maximum flavor.
This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet salad is seriously addictive.
A Taste of Home, Simplified
Classic macaroni salad is a staple at BBQs and picnics. Its origins are firmly rooted in American comfort food. This recipe is super easy and takes about an hour, including chill time.
It makes enough for 8-10 hungry folks. This dish is perfect as one of your picnic side dishes !
The Magic of This Macaroni Salad Recipe
One of the best things about this creamy macaroni salad is that it can be adapted to your tastes. This recipe makes a perfect summer salad recipes , and is the ultimate comfort food.
Time to gather those ingredients! Next, let’s get cooking.
Grandma Betty's Killer Macaroni Salad: Your New Go-To
So, you’re looking for the best macaroni salad recipe ? This is the one! I remember Grandma Betty always made a huge bowl for our summer parties, and it was always the first thing to disappear.
This recipe captures that same magic, but with a few simple upgrades.
From Humble Origins to BBQ Royalty
Macaroni salad is a true American classic, showing up at picnics and potlucks across the country. My version is a nod to tradition.
But it takes only about an hour from start to finish, is an easy level for all cooks and yields 8-10 servings.
Get ready to be crowned the BBQ king or queen!
Why This Macaroni Salad Recipe Rocks
Besides being incredibly delicious, this macaroni salad with egg (optional, of course!) is surprisingly satisfying. If you're feeling adventurous, try a Hawaiian macaroni salad recipe ! Seriously, this is perfect for any occasion and will be a crowd pleaser without a doubt.
Trust me, you need this recipe in your life.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Party Started!
Alright, lets jump into this macaroni salad recipe easy . It is all about nailing those key ingredients. Get ready to whip up Grandma Betty's Killer macaroni salad .
This is not just any mac salad recipe , this is the mac salad!
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g) .
- Water: For boiling. Seriously, don't forget this!
- Salt: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , for that pasta water. Salty pasta is happy pasta.
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup (240ml) . Full fat is non-negotiable.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1/4 cup (60ml) .
- Yellow Mustard: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Sweet and tangy is where it's at.
- Celery Seed: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Don't skip this, it's magic!
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) .
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) , or to taste.
- Celery: 1 cup (115g) , diced.
- Red Onion: 1/2 cup (60g) , diced. Or sweet onion for less bite.
- Red Bell Pepper: 1/2 cup (60g) , diced.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (30g) , chopped. Fresh is always best, you know?
For best macaroni salad recipe , remember these things for your ingredients! When buying the veggies, look for firm celery and vibrant bell peppers.
If you want to make a Hawaiian mac salad look for some canned pineapple.
Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce
Celery seed and mustard? Yeah, that’s the power couple. A pinch of sugar balances everything out. If you want a bit more tang, a splash of extra apple cider vinegar works wonders.
Also, try to create your own classic macaroni salad .
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You really don't need fancy gear.
- Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
- Colander: For draining that pasta.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing everything.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Because precision matters.
- Cutting Board and Chef's Knife: For chopping those veggies. You could use a potato masher in place of a large mixing bowl if you wish.
Now you have the core ingredients and tools for success. Let's get cooking this creamy macaroni salad ! It's a super versatile picnic side dish , so it should be fun.
Stay tuned for the next step.
Grandma Betty's Killer Macaroni Salad: A Summer Staple
Honestly, is there anything more summery than a big bowl of creamy macaroni salad ? I think not. This recipe? It's a tribute to my own Grandma Betty's version.
You know, the one everyone fought over at family barbecues? It’s the best macaroni salad recipe , if I do say so myself.
This classic macaroni salad is easy enough for anyone to make. It's perfect for picnic side dishes . Plus, it’s always a hit. Let’s get to it!
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Key
Before we dive in, let's get organized. This is the essential mise en place . Cook the macaroni and prepare the veggies.
Chop everything beforehand. This will make the whole process smooth as butter. Safety first, mates. Be careful with your knives! A sharp knife is a safe knife, apparently!
Grandma Betty's Macaroni Salad: step-by-step
- Cook 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni in boiling, salted water. Salt the water with 1 tablespoon (15ml) salt. Follow package instructions until al dente . This will take around 8- 10 minutes . Avoid overcooking! Mushy pasta is the enemy.
- Drain the macaroni well. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Spread on a baking sheet to cool. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes . This prevents a watery dressing.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise , 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar , 2 tablespoons (30ml) yellow mustard , 2 tablespoons (30ml) granulated sugar , 1 teaspoon (5ml) celery seed , 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper , and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) salt. Mix until smooth.
- Add 1 cup (115g) diced celery , 1/2 cup (60g) diced red onion , 1/2 cup (60g) diced red bell pepper , and 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley to the cooled macaroni.
- Pour the dressing over the macaroni and veggies. Gently stir to combine. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes . The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld. Stir before serving.
Pro Tips for Macaroni Salad Recipe Easy Success
Want to take your macaroni salad with egg to the next level? Here are a few tricks. First, don't be afraid to tweak the dressing.
More vinegar for tang? Go for it. More sugar? Add it. One common mistake? Not chilling the pasta. Another great addition is to turn it into Hawaiian Mac Salad by adding pineapple and carrots, delicious!
For a quick shortcut, buy pre-diced veggies. But honestly, fresh is best. You can even make the dressing a day ahead.
This gives the flavors time to develop. Enjoy your delicious summer salad recipes !
Grandma Betty’s macaroni salad is always a winner. I hope this brings joy to your table!
Recipe Notes for the Best Macaroni Salad Recipe
Right then, let's dive into a few extra bits and bobs to make sure your macaroni salad is an absolute triumph.
Honestly, these are just things I've learned over the years making this for countless BBQs and picnics.
Serving up Your Classic Macaroni Salad
Presentation is key, you know? Pile that creamy macaroni salad high in a nice bowl. A sprinkle of extra parsley always makes it look fancy.
For sides, I reckon it pairs brilliantly with grilled burgers, hot dogs, or even some crispy fried chicken. You can't go wrong with other picnic side dishes like potato salad or coleslaw.
And to drink? Iced tea or lemonade are a must.
Keeping Your Macaroni Salad Fresh
Refrigeration is vital. Pop your macaroni salad in an airtight container and it'll happily keep in the fridge for 3-5 days .
Now, freezing isn't really recommended. The mayonnaise tends to separate, and nobody wants a grainy mac salad. Reheating isn't usually a thing, as this is best served cold.
Just give it a good stir before serving!
Macaroni Salad - A Few Twists You Can Try
Fancy a change? You can make it a Hawaiian Mac Salad by adding shredded carrots and crushed pineapple. It's surprisingly delicious! Need a macaroni salad recipe easy for a dietary need? Use vegan mayonnaise and check the sugar content of the ingredients.
For a different flavor you can replace the celery with cucumber.
Macaroni Salad With Egg
You know? I feel a macaroni salad with egg should be a staple for any home cook. This is where you take some hard boiled eggs, chop them roughly and add them to your Macaroni Salad Recipe .
You will thank me for this.
Nutrition Rundown
Okay, so I'm not a nutritionist, but roughly speaking, a serving of this classic macaroni salad will set you back around 350 calories .
It's got a decent bit of protein, a fair whack of fat (thanks, mayonnaise!), and some carbs to keep you going.
The celery seed and veggies offer some added vitamins and fibre too. It's comfort food. Don't overthink it!
So there you have it! Some little tips and tricks to elevate your macaroni salad . Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Happy cooking. I'm sure you will make the Best Macaroni Salad Recipe ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Help! My macaroni salad is too dry. What can I do?
No worries, we've all been there! The easiest fix is to add a bit more mayonnaise, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. A splash of milk or even a little pickle juice can also help loosen it up and add some extra flavor, especially if you're after a bit of a "Branston Pickle" tang!
Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, macaroni salad often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You might find you need to add a little extra mayo before serving, as the macaroni will absorb some of the dressing overnight.
What are some good variations I can try with this macaroni salad recipe?
Get creative! Try adding diced ham or hard boiled eggs for a heartier, protein packed version. For a bit of sweetness, consider adding some drained, crushed pineapple or even some sweet pickle relish. Think of it like jazz the core is there, but you can improvise!
How long does macaroni salad last in the fridge?
For food safety reasons, macaroni salad is best enjoyed within 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Always make sure it's in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other flavors. If you notice any off smells or discoloration, it's best to toss it, better safe than sorry!
Is there a way to make this macaroni salad healthier?
Definitely! You can lighten it up by using light mayonnaise or even swapping half of the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. Loading up on the veggies, like adding more celery, bell peppers, or even some grated carrots, will also boost the nutritional value.
You could even try whole wheat pasta for extra fiber; just don’t expect it to taste exactly like Grandma Betty’s!
My macaroni salad is bland. How can I add more flavor?
Flavor rescue time! A little extra mustard (Dijon adds a nice kick!), a splash of apple cider vinegar, or a pinch more celery seed can make a big difference. Also, don’t be afraid to season it generously with salt and pepper those two are key.
If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeno can add some serious zing.
Grandma Bettys Killer Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 0g |
