Dinner

Guy Fieri Macaroni Salad Recipe

ByElla Hart December 11, 2025December 11, 2025

Introduction

Guy Fieri macaroni salad is a creamy, tangy side dish bursting with classic flavors and a hint of nostalgia. Perfect for barbecues and potlucks, this easy recipe delivers the kind of comfort food everyone loves. Let’s dive in and make this crowd-pleasing salad!

A close-up view of a bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad, showing three main layers: small pasta pieces coated in a thick white dressing, chopped celery chunks with a fresh light green color mixed evenly throughout, and dark red pepper flakes sprinkled on top adding specks of color and texture. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken from an angle that highlights the creamy texture and mix of ingredients with a blurred light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
Paprika for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping. Let drain well.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, chopped celery, chopped onion, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir or whisk until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Add the well-drained macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat every piece of pasta. If using, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs now.
Step 4: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. For best flavor, chill for several hours or overnight to let the ingredients meld beautifully.
Step 5: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Optionally, sprinkle paprika on top for a touch of color and extra flair. Serve cold and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a creamier salad, add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise.
If you prefer less sweetness, substitute sweet pickle relish with finely chopped dill pickles and adjust sugar or vinegar accordingly.
Add finely diced red or green bell pepper or sweet peas for extra crunch and color.
Try stirring in chopped ham or cooked chicken for a more substantial salad.

Storage

Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It may thicken as it chills—simply stir well before serving and add a splash of milk or more mayonnaise if needed to loosen it up. Always keep it cold until ready to serve.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad, showing about two layers of elbow macaroni coated in a thick, pale white dressing with small black pepper specks scattered throughout. Mixed in are chunks of fresh, light green celery, cut into small, rough cubes, adding a crisp texture and color contrast. The salad looks rich and well-mixed, sitting on a white marbled texture surface with two blurred clear glasses in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this Guy Fieri macaroni salad ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead is highly recommended. Chilling the salad for at least an hour, and ideally several hours or overnight, allows the flavors to meld for the best taste.

What are some good variations for this macaroni salad?

You can customize it by adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced bell peppers, sweet peas, or even chopped ham or chicken to suit your preferences and make it heartier.