This Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is a fun twist on classic dishes! It’s creamy, colorful, and filled with pieces of hard-boiled eggs, pasta, and a tasty dressing that makes every bite special.
Honestly, who can resist a dish that combines two favorites? I love bringing this to picnics—it’s always a crowd-pleaser, and I might secretly take the last scoop just for me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta shape is classic for salads because it holds onto the dressing well. If you’re looking for a change, feel free to use fusilli or rotini, which also work nicely. Gluten-free pasta is a good alternative too!
Eggs: Large eggs are a must for that deviled egg flavor. If you’re on a vegan diet, consider using tofu for creaminess, or a store-bought egg substitute for a similar protein boost.
Mayonnaise: I usually stick with classic mayo, but you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Vegan mayonnaise is also available if you’re avoiding eggs. It’ll still give you that creamy texture!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice kick. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard works, but it will change the flavor slightly. Honey mustard could work too if you like things a bit sweeter.
Celery and Red Onion: Both add crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan of celery, try diced bell peppers or cucumbers. Green onions can replace the red onion if preferred, giving a milder taste.
How Do You Perfectly Cook Eggs for Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad?
Cooking eggs perfectly is key to a delightful salad. Start by placing your eggs in a pot, then cover with cold water. Bring it to a boil, then immediately turn off the heat and cover the pot. Let it sit for about 12 minutes.
- After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to an ice bath. This stops the cooking and makes peeling easier.
- Once cool, gently tap the eggs and roll them to crack the shell, making peeling easier.
- Chop the eggs into small pieces when they’re peeled, so they mix well with the salad.
How to Make Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad will take about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. So, in total, you are looking at around 50 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it well and set it aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Prepare the Eggs:
Next, place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then cover the pot, remove it from the heat, and let the eggs sit for about 12 minutes. After that, transfer the eggs to an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice and water) to cool down quickly. Once they’re cool, peel the eggs and chop them into small pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well to create a creamy dressing that will coat all the ingredients beautifully.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to combine the fun stuff! Add the cooled macaroni, chopped eggs, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and sliced olives into the bowl with the dressing. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated in that yummy dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Then, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with chopped chives and a sprinkle of paprika on top. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious salad!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works great, you can use any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or even penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for the best results!
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No worries! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and lighter texture. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and cream cheese can also work well for a creamy consistency.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This deviled egg macaroni salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. Make sure to stir it well before serving, as it may thicken slightly as it sits!
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumber, or even peas. Just make sure to dice them small enough to blend well with the other ingredients!
