This macaroni salad is a fun twist on a classic! It’s creamy, loaded with crunchy veggies, and has a zesty kick that makes it finger-lickin’ good, just like Guy Fieri would want!
It’s perfect for barbecues or picnics. I love how quick and easy it is to make—just boil, mix, and chill. Plus, everyone always goes back for seconds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for macaroni salad. If you’d like a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta or even chickpea pasta for a hearty texture.
Mayonnaise: A big player in the creaminess of the salad. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use Greek yogurt instead—it adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
Sour Cream: This adds a nice tang. If you want to avoid dairy, use more Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative that works as a dressing.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a kick to the flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, regular yellow mustard works too, but it will be a bit milder.
Veggies: I love the crunch from red bell pepper, celery, and red onion, but you can swap in any crunchy veggies you prefer, like cucumber or green bell pepper for a different flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Elbow Macaroni?
Cooking macaroni properly is key to a good salad. You want it al dente, so it holds up in the salad without getting mushy.
- Boil water in a large pot, adding a generous pinch of salt—it flavors the pasta.
- Add the macaroni and stir occasionally. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes.
- When the pasta is al dente, drain it well and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta for your salad.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfect macaroni ready for the salad! Enjoy the creamy and crunchy flavors of this dish.
Easy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This macaroni salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours in the fridge to chill and let the flavors meld. So, you’ll spend a quick time mixing it up and then let it work its magic in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente (usually around 7-9 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Make sure to let it drain well!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Whisk everything together well until it’s smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste—all the flavor is in the dressing!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with your creamy dressing. Gently stir until the macaroni is well coated. Then, fold in the finely diced red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and dill pickles. Mix carefully to keep the veggies crunchy.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows all those delicious flavors to come together and makes the salad taste even better!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. When you’re ready to serve, scoop it into bowls and sprinkle a little additional smoked paprika on top for a nice finishing touch. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy delight!
This recipe captures the creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky profile reminiscent of Guy Fieri’s bold flavor style, with crunchy veggies adding nice texture to the classic macaroni salad. Enjoy!
FAQ about Easy Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and some extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta works well if you need a gluten-free option. Just be sure to cook either type according to package directions until al dente, as cooking times may vary.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover macaroni salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken as it sits.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time is ideal, as it gives the flavors time to meld. You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance, just be sure to keep it refrigerated and covered tightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. This will maintain creaminess while providing a different flavor profile!
