Deviled Macaroni Salad
A flavorful and creamy macaroni salad with crispy bacon, green onions, and parsley, perfect for both hot and cold servings, ideal for picnics and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except radishes or cucumbers in the kettle in which the macaroni was cooked.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until heated through.
- Stir in radishes or cucumbers and serve hot.
- Ingredients can also be combined and served cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If you're short on time, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with any small pasta, like shells or rotini. Fresh herbs like dill can enhance the flavor, and for a kick, add a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this deviled macaroni salad warm or cold as a hearty side dish at barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent accompaniment to pork recipes. Add a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with extra parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salad in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of dressing or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. It can also be enjoyed cold, making it great for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Macaroni Salad contains roughly 97 calories, with 7g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value) and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1352mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator. If serving cold, you may want to add a bit more dressing before serving to refresh the flavors.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a bacon substitute, consider using smoked tempeh or a vegan bacon alternative for a similar flavor. You could also use sautéed mushrooms for a savory element without the meat.
How can I make this salad spicy?
To add some heat to your deviled macaroni salad, mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).