Cheddar Macaroni Salad
Transform your next gathering with this irresistible Cheddar Macaroni Salad, a creamy and flavorful twist on the classic pasta salad. Loaded with tender elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese cubes, and a medley of fresh, crunchy vegetables like red bell pepper, celery, and green onions, this recipe radiates vibrant textures and bold flavors. The silky dressing, made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a tangy hint of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar, perfectly complements the dish, while a touch of sugar balances the flavors. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners, this chilled macaroni salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. Ready in just 25 minutes and enhanced by a paprika garnish, this easy-to-make dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 0.5 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 0.25 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the macaroni under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir to coat evenly.
Fold in the cubed cheddar cheese, diced red bell pepper, green onions, and diced celery. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Optionally, sprinkle paprika over the top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Cheddar Macaroni Salad!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
536 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 41.2 g | 53% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.3 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 788 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.4 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.6 g | ||
| Protein | 10.7 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 179 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 151 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
