Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad 🥚🍝 – The Side Dish That Disappears First!

If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish that combines two classics—deviled eggs and macaroni salad—this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is your new go-to. Creamy, tangy, a little sweet, and packed with the flavor of everyone’s favorite picnic bite, this pasta salad is a guaranteed hit for Easter, backyard BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings.

With a creamy deviled-egg-inspired dressing, perfectly cooked pasta, and finely chopped celery for crunch, this dish is easy to make, stores well, and always leaves the bowl scraped clean. Whether you’re feeding 10 or just meal-prepping for the week, this is one delicious salad you’ll make again and again.

Ingredients

12 large eggs
1 pound elbow macaroni pasta
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

Instructions

Hard boil the eggs: Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and let sit covered for 12 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath, peel, and chop.
Cook the pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and chopped celery to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until fully coated.
Garnish: Sprinkle with extra paprika for color and flavor.
Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold.

Flavor & Texture Highlights

Classic deviled egg flavor: Mustard, mayo, and paprika give it that signature tangy, creamy taste.
Crunchy texture: Celery adds a crisp bite to balance the creaminess.
Smooth & satisfying: The chopped egg and pasta combo is hearty and rich.

Tips for the Perfect Macaroni Salad

Cool everything down: Be sure the eggs and pasta are completely cooled before mixing with the dressing to prevent separation.
Customize it: Add chopped pickles, red onion, or a spoonful of relish for a twist.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key so it holds up in the creamy dressing.
Let it rest: Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side at Easter brunch, cookouts, or Sunday dinners.
Pair with grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches.
Portion into small cups or jars for easy serving at parties or picnics.

Storage Info

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze: The mayo-based dressing doesn’t hold up well after freezing.
Stir before serving: Give the salad a good mix if it’s been sitting to redistribute the dressing.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Make it the night before for easy prep.

2. Can I use store-bought hard-boiled eggs? Definitely! Saves time and works just as well.

3. What pasta works best? Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells or ditalini also work great.

4. Can I make this with Greek yogurt instead of mayo? You can sub some or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

5. Can I add bacon? Absolutely! Crumbled bacon adds smoky, salty flavor and a crunch.

6. Is this gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and double-check all labels to make it gluten-free.

7. Can I use Dijon mustard? Yes! It adds a more complex flavor than yellow mustard.

8. Can I double the recipe? For sure—just double all ingredients and use a larger mixing bowl.

9. Is it kid-friendly? Very! The creamy texture and mild flavor make it a hit with kids.

10. What if it gets too thick in the fridge? Stir in a tablespoon of milk or mayo before serving to loosen it up.

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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Party Side Dish 🥚🍝

This Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad brings together the best of both worlds—classic deviled egg flavor and comforting macaroni salad texture. It’s creamy, flavorful, and always the first dish to disappear at any party. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table or prepping it for weekday lunches, it’s a recipe worth bookmarking (and doubling). Grab your mixing bowl and let the deliciousness begin!