Description
Looking for a creamy, comforting side that brings Southern charm to your table? Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory. This easy recipe is filled with elbow macaroni, crisp veggies, and a luscious dressing, making it a top pick among classic side dishes. Whether you’re planning quick dinner ideas, a picnic, or holiday food prep, this is the easy recipe your collection needs. Ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or just a chilled bite on a busy night—this is Southern comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
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
1/4 teaspoon salt
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)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until al dente (7–8 minutes).
2. Drain and rinse the macaroni with cold water. Let it cool completely.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Dice celery, bell pepper, and pimentos. Chop onion and eggs if using.
5. Add cooled macaroni to the dressing. Gently fold in vegetables (and optional ingredients).
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
7. Stir gently before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving to develop flavor.
If the salad thickens after refrigeration, stir in a bit of mayo or milk before serving.
Swap in sour cream for part of the mayo for a tangier twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: easy recipe, macaroni salad, Southern side, quick dinner, food ideas