Macaroni salad with cheese is a classic dish that has been a staple in American cuisine for generations. This creamy, savory salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer barbecues, offering a delightful combination of pasta, cheese, and a variety of fresh ingredients. In this article, we will share a delicious macaroni salad recipe with cheese that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup diced pickles, 1/4 cup diced green onions, or 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Optional: Add diced pickles, green onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
7. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to ensure the flavors are well combined.
Pro Tips:
– For a tangier flavor, consider using a combination of regular and Greek-style yogurt in place of the sour cream.
– If you prefer a creamier salad, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
– For a more vibrant color, use a mix of red and green bell peppers or a combination of red and green onions.
– If you have any leftover macaroni salad, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Macaroni salad with cheese is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature version of this timeless classic. Whether you’re planning a casual gathering or a formal dinner, this delicious macaroni salad recipe with cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
