Macaroni Salad For A Crowd
A creamy, colorful macaroni salad packed with vegetables and a tangy dressing, perfect for large gatherings and potlucks, offering a satisfying, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Mix shredded carrots, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper together in a large bowl.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together Eagle Brand milk, vinegar, Miracle Whip salad dressing, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the macaroni and vegetables, and toss until evenly coated.
- Shred the American cheese and sprinkle over the salad, then gently mix to incorporate.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in diced pickles or relish to the salad. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a twist. To save time, use pre-shredded carrots and cheese. If you're looking for a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip. This macaroni salad is perfect for potlucks and pairs beautifully with Deviled Eggs Spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni salad chilled, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs for a pop of color. It makes a great side dish for barbecues and picnics, pairing well with grilled meats and fresh fruit. Consider serving it alongside Peachy Sweet Potatoes for a balanced meal that satisfies a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may thicken as it sits, so stir in a splash of milk or additional dressing before serving again. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the vegetables and cheese can suffer when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Salad For A Crowd contains roughly 349 calories, with 9g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (154% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and potassium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 948mg per serving (41% 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 macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes, macaroni salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to stir it well before serving and adjust the dressing if needed.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
To make the macaroni salad more filling, consider adding protein like diced cooked chicken, ham, or chickpeas. You could also mix in some chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness. These additions will turn it into a satisfying meal rather than just a side dish.
Is this macaroni salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat. Just be sure to check the ingredients in the salad dressing if you’re catering to specific dietary restrictions. It’s a delightful option for gatherings that include vegetarian recipes.
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).