Mom’s Macaroni Salad

4.95 from 17 votes

This is the perfect macaroni salad. It's loaded with ham, cheese, and veggies in a creamy dressing. Perfect for BBQs and potlucks!

Prep Time20

Cook Time0

Refrigerate3

Total Time3 20

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Macaroni Salad, Salad

Servings:

Calories: 425kcal

Author: Erica Walker

Prepare macaroni to al dente according to package directions. After macaroni is cooked, drain well and cool to room temperature.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, toss macaroni with ham, cheese, peas, carrots, and other mix-ins.
Fold in mayonnaise mixture until pasta is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 3 hours or overnight. If the salad seems a little dry after setting up overnight, add some milk a little a bit at a time until salad becomes nice and creamy again.

Recipe Tips:

I like to make this salad a day ahead and let it chill overnight. This gives the flavors a chance to blend.
When making ahead, store in Ziplock bags until ready to serve, this way you save on dishes too.
If it seems a little dry when ready to serve, just add a splash of milk before serving and stir for a few minutes.
If you don't want to make the full thing ahead, just making the macaroni salad dressing can save you time later (mayo, mustard, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, pepper, and salt).
Depending on your tastes, you can add in or substitute ingredients to the dressing as well. Dijon mustard can be used instead of yellow mustard. Garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and other seasonings can add flavors to your taste.