This Homestyle Macaroni Salad is everything you love in a summer side dish: tender elbow pasta, crunchy fresh vegetables, and a lightened-up creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and mayo.
It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy, tangy dressing – With Greek yogurt and mustard
Crisp veggie crunch – Bell pepper, celery, and onion
Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better chilled
Balanced and lighter – Greek yogurt adds protein without heaviness
Perfect side dish – For BBQs, burgers, or sandwiches
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Elbow macaroni – Classic base for a creamy pasta salad
Red or green bell pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch
Celery and onion – For that crisp texture and savory balance
Green onions – Bright, mild flavor and color
Greek yogurt + mayo – Light, creamy combo for the dressing
Vinegar and mustard – For tang and depth
Garlic powder, parsley, paprika – Simple spice to round it out
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cook pasta al dente – So it doesn’t get mushy
Cool pasta completely – Before adding dressing
Chill before serving – Lets the flavors develop
Save half the dressing – Add it just before serving for creaminess
Customize it – Add chopped eggs, pickles, or shredded carrots
How to Make Homestyle Macaroni Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil 2 cups elbow macaroni until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, vinegar, Dijon, yellow mustard, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, 1 cup bell pepper, 1 cup celery, ½ cup onion, and paprika.
Step 4: Dress and Chill
Add half the dressing and stir well. Cover and chill for 1–2 hours.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Before serving, stir in the remaining dressing for maximum creaminess.
Garnish with 2–3 tbsp chopped green onion and adjust seasoning if needed.
What to Serve With Macaroni Salad
Grilled chicken or burgers – A BBQ essential
Sandwiches or wraps – Easy weekday lunch pairing
Deviled eggs or corn on the cob – Picnic-friendly sides
Pulled pork or ribs – Classic summer combo
Variations / Substitutions
Make it eggy – Add chopped boiled eggs
Go spicy – Mix in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños
Swap pasta shape – Use shells, rotini, or bowtie
Add pickles – For extra tang and crunch
Vegan version – Use plant-based mayo and yogurt
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Prep ahead – Make dressing and pasta in advance
Add dressing later – Save half to stir in before serving
Serve cold – Best when chilled and creamy
FAQs
Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes—make it a day in advance, but add extra dressing before serving.
Is Greek yogurt necessary?
It lightens up the dressing, but you can use all mayo if preferred.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Use more yellow mustard or substitute with spicy brown mustard.
Can I freeze it?
No, pasta salads don’t freeze well. Best enjoyed fresh.
How do I keep it creamy?
Reserve half the dressing and stir it in right before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Homestyle Macaroni Salad is creamy, cool, and made with wholesome ingredients.
Whether you’re making it for a potluck, meal prep, or summer BBQ, it’s a versatile dish that’s always a hit.
Fresh, flavorful, and just the right amount of tangy—this is your new go-to pasta salad recipe.
