Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

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Creamy, tangy, and packed with a delightful crunch, Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is the ultimate comfort dish that brings Southern charm to any table. This classic side is a beautiful mix of tender elbow macaroni, crisp vegetables, and a rich, flavorful dressing that’s both simple and irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, a church potluck, or as a chilled side dish for dinner, this salad never fails to steal the spotlight.

What makes this macaroni salad shine is its balance—each bite delivers the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The creaminess of the mayonnaise-based dressing pairs wonderfully with the mild sweetness of diced pimentos and the crunch of fresh celery and green peppers. It’s a nostalgic recipe that feels familiar yet fresh, and it’s easy enough to whip up even on busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad

• Bursting with creamy, savory flavor and a little sweetness
• Incredibly easy to prepare with pantry staples
• Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, BBQs, or lunchboxes
• Make-ahead friendly and stays tasty for days in the fridge
• A true Southern classic with Dolly’s signature simplicity

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad, you’ll need just a handful of reliable kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling the macaroni evenly.
• Colander: Needed to drain the cooked pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the pasta with vegetables and dressing thoroughly.
• Spatula or Large Spoon: Helps in folding the ingredients together without breaking the pasta.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: To dice the celery, green pepper, and pimentos precisely.

Each of these tools plays a key role in preparing a salad that’s well-mixed, evenly dressed, and packed with flavor in every bite.

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Preparation Tips

Let the macaroni cool completely before mixing it with the dressing to avoid turning the salad into a warm, soggy mess. For the best texture, slightly undercook the pasta (al dente) so it holds up once dressed. Dice the vegetables uniformly so each spoonful has a bit of everything. Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, don’t skip the seasoning; a pinch of salt and a crack of pepper can elevate the whole dish.

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Ingredients for Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/3 cup diced pimentos (drained)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional, for extra richness)

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Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions (typically 7-8 minutes). Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to absorb moisture from the dressing.

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Step 2: Rinse and Cool

Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off any excess water and let the pasta cool completely. This prevents the dressing from getting absorbed too quickly and helps retain the ideal salad texture.

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Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

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Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

Dice the celery, green bell pepper, and pimentos finely. If using onions or hard-boiled eggs, chop them now. Keep the cuts uniform to ensure a consistent texture throughout the salad.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the vegetables (and eggs or onions, if using) until everything is well-coated. Be careful not to over-mix as this can break the pasta.

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Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill for 2–4 hours or even overnight.

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Step 7: Final Taste and Serve

Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste once more. Adjust with a little extra salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed. Serve chilled as a side or light main dish.

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Notes

This macaroni salad gets better with time. Letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours helps the flavors blend and develop a creamy, cohesive taste. If it looks a little dry after refrigeration, stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess. For a tangier kick, consider adding a bit of dill pickle juice or extra mustard. This dish is also versatile—feel free to swap in red bell pepper for sweetness or use sour cream in place of part of the mayo for a tangier profile.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: This will lead to a mushy salad. Always go for al dente.
• Not rinsing the pasta: It’s crucial to cool and rinse the macaroni to avoid a sticky texture.
• Adding warm pasta to the dressing: This can make the mayo separate and turn oily.
• Undermixing the dressing: Ensure the dressing is thoroughly mixed before adding in the pasta.
• Skipping the chill time: This salad needs time to rest in the fridge so the flavors can fully develop.
• Overloading with vegetables: Maintain the veggie-to-pasta balance to preserve the classic texture and flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Store Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4–5 days. If you’re making it ahead, wait to add any fresh herbs or garnishes until just before serving to keep them vibrant. Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing can separate and change texture upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per 1-cup serving (based on full-fat mayo and without optional eggs):

• Calories: ~330 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 360mg
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does macaroni salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make it a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

What kind of mayonnaise works best?

Full-fat mayo offers the creamiest texture, but you can use light mayo or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes, diced ham, shredded chicken, or even tuna can turn this side dish into a satisfying main.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so! It’s mild, creamy, and adaptable to taste. Just omit onions or peppers if needed.

How can I make this macaroni salad healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, light mayo, or swap part of the mayo for Greek yogurt. Load up on extra veggies for fiber.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?

Freezing is not recommended—the dressing will separate and the texture will change upon thawing.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Definitely! Small cubes of cheddar or shredded cheese add a lovely richness and extra flavor.

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Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a taste of home, a touch of Southern hospitality, and a dependable recipe that fits any table. With its simple ingredients and unbeatable creaminess, it’s no wonder this salad has stood the test of time. Whether you’re prepping it for a crowd or just craving a cold, comforting bite, this salad brings flavor and joy with every forkful.

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