Dinner

Southern Macaroni Salad Recipe

Byanna orden August 30, 2026August 30, 2026

Introduction

Southern Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. With tender elbow macaroni, hard-boiled eggs, and a flavorful mix of mayonnaise and Miracle Whip, it’s a comforting classic that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

A white bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad layered with small elbow pasta coated in a shiny white sauce, mixed with light green chopped celery pieces evenly spread throughout. The salad is topped with a light sprinkle of red paprika powder concentrated in the center, creating a colorful contrast against the creamy white pasta. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh look to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 large hard-boiled eggs
1 3/4 cups Miracle Whip, divided
1/2 medium onion, peeled and diced
2 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
3 stalks celery, diced
2 lbs dried elbow macaroni
3 3/4 cups mayonnaise, divided
1/4 tsp paprika, for garnish
6 oz water-packed tuna fish, drained (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: Drain the pasta in a strainer and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: While the pasta cooks, dice the onion and celery, and chop the hard-boiled eggs.
Step 5: In the empty pasta pot, mix together half of the mayonnaise and half of the Miracle Whip until smooth.
Step 6: Add the drained tuna (if using), diced onion, celery, and chopped eggs to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 7: Add the drained pasta back into the pot and mix until everything is evenly combined.
Step 8: Stir in the remaining mayonnaise and Miracle Whip, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 9: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle paprika over the top before serving for a touch of color and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the ingredients meld together.
Omit the tuna for a vegetarian-friendly version or substitute with diced cooked chicken for a heartier salad.
Use sweet onion or red onion for a milder, sweeter taste.
Adding a splash of vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar can balance the tanginess if desired.

Storage

Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best taste, serve chilled. You can gently stir before serving if the dressing separates. Avoid freezing as it can change the texture of the mayonnaise-based dressing.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad, showing three main layers: the bottom layer of small curved macaroni noodles coated in a smooth, light beige mayonnaise dressing, the middle layer of bright green celery pieces mixed evenly throughout, and the top layer of the same creamy dressing sprinkled with a generous amount of reddish-brown paprika powder. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the overall look is rich and fresh with a soft texture on the macaroni and crunchiness from the celery. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Southern Macaroni Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Just keep it covered and refrigerated.

What can I use instead of Miracle Whip?

You can substitute Miracle Whip with extra mayonnaise, but keep in mind that Miracle Whip adds a distinct tangy sweetness that mayonnaise alone doesn’t provide.