This Homestyle Macaroni Salad is everything you love in a summer side dish: tender elbow pasta, crunchy fresh vegetables, and a lightened-up creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and mayo.

It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, tangy dressing – With Greek yogurt and mustard

Crisp veggie crunch – Bell pepper, celery, and onion

Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better chilled

Balanced and lighter – Greek yogurt adds protein without heaviness

Perfect side dish – For BBQs, burgers, or sandwiches

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Elbow macaroni – Classic base for a creamy pasta salad

Red or green bell pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch

Celery and onion – For that crisp texture and savory balance

Green onions – Bright, mild flavor and color

Greek yogurt + mayo – Light, creamy combo for the dressing

Vinegar and mustard – For tang and depth

Garlic powder, parsley, paprika – Simple spice to round it out

Pro Tips Before You Start

Cook pasta al dente – So it doesn’t get mushy

Cool pasta completely – Before adding dressing

Chill before serving – Lets the flavors develop

Save half the dressing – Add it just before serving for creaminess

Customize it – Add chopped eggs, pickles, or shredded carrots

How to Make Homestyle Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil 2 cups elbow macaroni until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, vinegar, Dijon, yellow mustard, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, 1 cup bell pepper, 1 cup celery, ½ cup onion, and paprika.

Step 4: Dress and Chill
Add half the dressing and stir well. Cover and chill for 1–2 hours.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Before serving, stir in the remaining dressing for maximum creaminess.

Garnish with 2–3 tbsp chopped green onion and adjust seasoning if needed.

What to Serve With Macaroni Salad

Grilled chicken or burgers – A BBQ essential

Sandwiches or wraps – Easy weekday lunch pairing

Deviled eggs or corn on the cob – Picnic-friendly sides

Pulled pork or ribs – Classic summer combo

Variations / Substitutions

Make it eggy – Add chopped boiled eggs

Go spicy – Mix in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños

Swap pasta shape – Use shells, rotini, or bowtie

Add pickles – For extra tang and crunch

Vegan version – Use plant-based mayo and yogurt

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Prep ahead – Make dressing and pasta in advance

Add dressing later – Save half to stir in before serving

Serve cold – Best when chilled and creamy

FAQs

Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?
Yes—make it a day in advance, but add extra dressing before serving.

Is Greek yogurt necessary?
It lightens up the dressing, but you can use all mayo if preferred.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Use more yellow mustard or substitute with spicy brown mustard.

Can I freeze it?
No, pasta salads don’t freeze well. Best enjoyed fresh.

How do I keep it creamy?
Reserve half the dressing and stir it in right before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Homestyle Macaroni Salad is creamy, cool, and made with wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re making it for a potluck, meal prep, or summer BBQ, it’s a versatile dish that’s always a hit.

Fresh, flavorful, and just the right amount of tangy—this is your new go-to pasta salad recipe.