why make this recipe
Macaroni Salad for a Crowd is perfect for gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. It’s easy to make in large quantities and can feed many hungry guests. The creamy dressing, combined with fresh vegetables, makes it a refreshing side dish. Plus, it’s a dish that’s loved by both kids and adults alike!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
how to make Macaroni Salad for a Crowd
Ingredients:
- 8 pounds macaroni
- 16 stalks celery (finely chopped)
- 8 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 8 green bell peppers (finely chopped)
- 2 cups carrots (shredded)
- 64 ounces mayonnaise
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cup mustard
- 1/4 cup salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 cups distilled white vinegar
Directions:
- Boil water in an extra-large stock pot and salt it heavily.
- Add macaroni and cook until tender. Drain immediately and place it under cold running water.
- Cut vegetables into small, even pieces. You can do this ahead of time if desired.
- Measure and stir dressing ingredients well.
- Add vegetables into the dressing and stir well.
- Add pasta and stir until everything is combined.
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours, or up to 48 hours for better flavor.
- Stir before serving to keep the salad moist and delicious!
how to serve Macaroni Salad for a Crowd
Serve Macaroni Salad chilled. You can place it in a large serving bowl and let guests help themselves. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh parsley or extra veggies on top. It pairs well with grilled meats or burgers and is a great addition to any summer barbecue.
how to store Macaroni Salad for a Crowd
Store any leftover Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 to 5 days. If the salad seems dry after a few days, you can add a little more mayonnaise or dressing to refresh it.
tips to make Macaroni Salad for a Crowd
- To save time, you can prepare the vegetables a day in advance.
- Make sure to chill the salad before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Taste the salad before serving; you may want to adjust the seasoning.
- If you want extra flavor, add some chopped herbs like dill or parsley.
variation
You can customize the salad by adding protein like diced chicken or tuna. Some people also enjoy adding chopped pickles or olives for an extra twist. Feel free to use different types of pasta shapes for a fun presentation!
Crowd-Size Macaroni Salad Recipe is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a large group at BBQs, potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.
For more delicious side dishes and meal ideas, enjoy this refreshing greek yogurt macaroni salad or try these juicy Big Mac-style cheeseburger sliders. You can also discover this creamy Hawaiian macaroni salad for another crowd-pleasing favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad a day ahead of time?
Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to keep it refrigerated.
2. Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! You can use any vegetables you like, such as sweet peas, corn, or even diced tomatoes.
3. Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a lighter version. You can also add more veggies to increase the nutritional value.
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Macaroni Salad for a Crowd
- Total Time: 145 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and refreshing macaroni salad that’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 8 pounds macaroni
- 16 stalks celery (finely chopped)
- 8 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 8 green bell peppers (finely chopped)
- 2 cups carrots (shredded)
- 64 ounces mayonnaise
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cup mustard
- 1/4 cup salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 cups distilled white vinegar
Instructions
- Boil water in an extra-large stock pot and salt it heavily.
- Add macaroni and cook until tender. Drain immediately and place it under cold running water.
- Cut vegetables into small, even pieces. You can do this ahead of time if desired.
- Measure and stir dressing ingredients well.
- Add vegetables into the dressing and stir well.
- Add pasta and stir until everything is combined.
- Cover and chill for at least 120 minutes, or up to 2880 minutes for better flavor.
- Stir before serving to keep the salad moist and delicious!
Notes
To save time, prepare the vegetables a day in advance. Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavors. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
