How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Macaroni Salad?

You need 14 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 lb large elbow macaroni, cooked to desired tenderness, 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery, 1/4 cup finely diced sweet onion, 1 small red sweet bell pepper, finely diced, and more.

Is Creamy Macaroni Salad suitable as pasta & noodles?

Yes, Creamy Macaroni Salad falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Creamy Macaroni Salad?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Name: Creamy Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large elbow macaroni, cooked to desired tenderness; 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery; 1/4 cup finely diced sweet onion; 1 small red sweet bell pepper, finely diced; 1/4 - 1/2 cup sliced pimento stuffed olive; 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise (I like half and half) or 1 1/2 cups salad dressing (I like half and half); 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon celery seed; 1/2 lb bacon, prepared as in Homemade Fresh Bacon Bits

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Creamy Macaroni Salad is a must-try. Made with elbow macaroni, celery, sweet onion and red sweet bell pepper. Eas…

This Creamy Macaroni Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as thinly sliced celery, finely diced sweet onion, sliced pimento stuffed olive and prepared yellow mustard. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 947 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It's versatile enough for an easy weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough for guests at the weekend. Serve it with your favorite sides, and keep any leftovers for a quick meal the next day.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Pasta & Noodles

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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Creamy Macaroni Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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Frequently Asked Questions