If you’re looking for a salad that is bursting with classic flavor, a creamy texture, and that touch of nostalgia, then this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe is going to become your new go-to dish. Combining perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with the punchy tang of deviled egg-style dressing, crunchy celery, pickles, and just the right amount of smoky paprika, this salad strikes a perfect balance between comfort food and something a little special. Whether you’re bringing it to a family picnic, a potluck, or just craving a hearty side, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe is simple, trusty, and plays its own vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy mayonnaise that gives the salad its lusciousness, to the crunchy celery and tangy pickles that add that perfect bite, each component is essential.
- Elbow macaroni (16 ounces): The classic pasta choice that holds the dressing beautifully and provides a perfect tender base.
- Mayonnaise (1 cup): Adds creamy richness and smooth texture to the salad, giving it that irresistible mouthfeel.
- Mustard (3 tablespoons): Brings a zesty tang that cuts through the creaminess, a true flavor enhancer.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Introduces a subtle tart brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- Sour cream (2 tablespoons): Adds a mild tang and extra creaminess for depth.
- Granulated sugar (1½ teaspoons): Balances the tartness with just a hint of sweetness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential seasoning to amplify all the flavors.
- Pepper (¼ teaspoon): A gentle kick of spice to complement the creamy salad.
- Hard boiled eggs (6 large, peeled): The star of the recipe, imparting that classic deviled egg flavor when mixed in.
- Celery (¾ cup, chopped): Provides satisfying crunch and freshness.
- Red onion (¾ cup, diced): Adds a mild sharpness and vibrant color.
- Pickles (½ cup, diced): Choose dill or sweet, depending on your preference; they bring a punchy, zesty element.
- Paprika (for garnish): Smoky or sweet paprika sprinkled on top adds both color and flavor finale.
How to Make Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook Macaroni
Start with a large pot of well-salted water brought to a rolling boil. Add your elbow macaroni and cook it until al dente, following the package directions carefully so it isn’t mushy but still tender. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. This step ensures each bite has perfect pasta texture before tossing it with the dressing.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sour cream until smooth. This combination creates that signature tangy creaminess essential for a classic deviled egg flavor. Then, add in the granulated sugar, salt, and pepper for balanced seasoning, whisking them fully into the mixture.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg Yolks
Carefully separate the yolks from your hard boiled eggs and mash them lightly with a fork. Stir the mashed yolks straight into your dressing and whisk vigorously to blend it all smoothly together. This step is the heart of the recipe—it gives the dressing that unmistakable deviled egg richness and a slightly grainy texture that feels so homey.
Step 4: Chop Egg Whites and Combine
Coarsely chop the egg whites and set them aside. When the cooled macaroni is ready, add it to the dressing and stir well to coat each piece evenly. Then gently fold in the chopped egg whites, celery, red onion, and pickles, ensuring all ingredients are mixed thoroughly and the dressing clings to everything. Taste test here and adjust salt or pepper to your liking.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the dressing thicken up for a perfectly chilled and flavorful salad. Just before serving, sprinkle a generous dusting of paprika or smoked paprika across the top to add a vibrant pop of color and a touch of smoky aroma.
How to Serve Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of paprika just before serving gives your Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe a beautiful finishing touch both in appearance and flavor. For extra flair, you can garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives to introduce a bright herbaceous note. A few whole slices of pickles or halved eggs on top also make your salad look irresistible and inviting.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a side dish alongside grilled meats, burgers, or fried chicken. It’s a classic complement at barbecues, picnics, or any casual gathering. Try pairing it with crispy potato wedges, fresh garden salads, or even cornbread to round out a meal that’s comfort food with a twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe in hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for colorful, edible bowls. You can also spoon it onto butter lettuce leaves for individual portions perfect for a buffet table. Layer it in clear glass jars for a picnic-ready presentation that’s as charming as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because of the creamy dressing and delicate ingredients, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors tend to mellow and deepen slightly overnight for a delicious second-day taste.
Freezing
Freezing the Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe is not recommended, as the texture of the mayonnaise-based dressing and cooked pasta can become watery and grainy upon thawing. To preserve the best quality, enjoy it fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
This is a cold dish meant to be served chilled and is not suitable for reheating. If you want a warm pasta salad experience, try a different recipe, but for this comforting classic, the cool creamy texture is where the magic is.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and excellent for this salad, other small pasta shapes like shells or mini rotini would also work well and hold the dressing nicely.
How do I make hard boiled eggs peel easily?
For easy peeling, cook your eggs in boiling water for about 9 to 12 minutes, then transfer them immediately to an ice water bath. Cooling quickly helps separate the membrane from the shell for smooth peeling.
Can I make this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe vegan or egg-free?
You can experiment by using vegan mayonnaise and omitting the eggs, but keep in mind that eggs are a defining feature of this recipe. You may want to add extra crunchy veggies or chickpeas for texture and protein.
Is it okay to use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes! Both sweet and dill pickles provide great flavor; sweet pickles will give a milder, slightly sugary tang, while dill pickles add more savory zest. Choose based on your taste preference.
Can I prepare this salad the day before serving?
Definitely! In fact, making it a day ahead in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving and add cinnamon dusting fresh on top.
Final Thoughts
There is something so reassuring and delightful about this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe that makes it perfect for any occasion where comforting, flavorful food is appreciated. From the creamy dressing to the satisfying crunch and vibrant tangs, every bite feels made with love. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
This creamy Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad combines tender elbow macaroni with a flavorful deviled egg-inspired dressing, fresh celery, red onion, and pickles for a tangy, satisfying side dish. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing summer meal, this salad offers a delightful twist on classic macaroni salad with the rich taste of deviled eggs.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 6 large hard boiled eggs (peeled and divided)
Mix-ins:
- ¾ cup celery, chopped
- ¾ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup diced pickles (dill or sweet, your choice)
- Paprika or smoked paprika, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Heat a large pot of water over high heat and add salt generously. Once the water reaches a hard boil, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the manufacturer’s directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then drain well.
- Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sour cream until smooth.
- Season Dressing: Add granulated sugar, salt, and pepper to the dressing and whisk thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Add Egg Yolks to Dressing: Remove the yolks from the hard boiled eggs and lightly smash them with a fork. Mix the smashed yolks into the dressing and whisk until fully incorporated, creating a creamy deviled egg flavor.
- Prepare Egg Whites: Chop the egg whites into small pieces and set them aside for later.
- Combine Pasta and Dressing: Add the cooled, drained macaroni to the deviled egg dressing and stir well to coat the pasta thoroughly. Note that the dressing will thicken as it sets.
- Add Vegetables and Egg Whites: Stir in the chopped egg whites, celery, diced red onion, and pickles until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Chill Salad: Cover the macaroni salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the salad with paprika or smoked paprika for a pop of color and subtle smoky flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use freshly cooked macaroni that has been thoroughly chilled to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
- Feel free to substitute dill pickles with sweet pickles depending on your taste preference.
- You can prepare this salad a day ahead to deepen the flavors.
- If you prefer a tangier taste, add a little more apple cider vinegar or mustard to the dressing.
- For a healthier option, use low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
