If you’re a fan of deviled eggs and creamy pasta salads, then this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is about to become your new favorite dish! Combining the rich, tangy flavors of deviled eggs with the hearty texture of elbow macaroni, this recipe is a must-try for potlucks, picnics, or any time you crave a comforting side dish. Packed with classic ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, mayo, mustard, and a hint of dill pickles, this salad offers the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and zest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Blend of Flavors: The tanginess of yellow mustard, the slight sweetness from sugar, and the savory depth of paprika create a well-rounded taste.
- Creamy & Comforting: A mayo-based dressing coats every bite in smooth deliciousness.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a straightforward process make this recipe a breeze.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether for BBQs, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 large eggs – hard-boiled and peeled
- 1 pound elbow macaroni pasta – cooked and cooled
- 1 cup mayonnaise – the classic creamy base
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard – for that signature deviled egg tang
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – adds a zippy balance
- 1 tsp sugar – just a hint to round things out
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped – for crunch
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped – a little bite
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped – trust me, this makes it!
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, but lovely for color)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (typically around 8-10 minutes). Drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggs
While the pasta is cooking, place the eggs in a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice bath to cool before peeling. Once cooled, chop the eggs into small pieces, reserving a few slices for garnish if desired.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This creamy, tangy dressing is the heart of the dish!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled macaroni, chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and dill pickles to the bowl with the dressing. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle extra paprika over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. If you reserved some sliced eggs, arrange them on top.
Step 6: Chill & Enjoy
For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Tips for the Best Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad
- Use Fresh Eggs for Easy Peeling: If you struggle with peeling hard-boiled eggs, use slightly older eggs—they peel more easily.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least an hour enhances its taste.
- Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a lighter texture, reduce the mayo slightly or swap in some Greek yogurt.
- Customize It! Add crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or even a dash of hot sauce for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a larger buffet spread. Try serving it with:
- BBQ Chicken or Ribs
- Burgers or Hot Dogs
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- Fresh Green Salad
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Avoid Freezing: Mayo-based salads don’t freeze well, as the dressing may separate.
- Revive Leftovers: If the salad dries out slightly, mix in a bit more mayo before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the best of two beloved classics. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or preparing it for a weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!
