Amish Macaroni Salad

Amish Macaroni Salad: The Ultimate Sweet & Tangy Side Dish

Few side dishes are as beloved at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings as Amish Macaroni Salad. This sweet, tangy, and creamy salad is a classic comfort food, known for its distinctive flavor and texture. A staple in Midwestern and Amish communities, this dish has gained popularity nationwide, even appearing in Walmart delis and specialty stores. Now, you can recreate this delicious homemade Amish Macaroni Salad in your own kitchen with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Perfect for Large Gatherings – Feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. ✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, quick prep, and minimal cooking required. ✔ Sweet & Tangy Flavor – A unique balance of Miracle Whip, mustard, and sugar sets it apart. ✔ Creamy Yet Crunchy – A delightful combination of tender pasta and crisp veggies.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

Base Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni – The foundation of the dish, giving it the perfect bite.

3 large eggs, hard-boiled – Adds creaminess, texture, and a mild richness.

Crunch & Flavor:

3 sticks celery, chopped – Provides a crisp contrast to the creamy dressing.

1 small red bell pepper, chopped – Adds color, slight sweetness, and crunch.

1 onion, diced – Brings mild sharpness that enhances the salad’s depth.

2 tbsp sweet pickle relish – Delivers tangy sweetness that defines the Amish-style taste.

The Signature Dressing:

2 cups Miracle Whip – The creamy base, giving the salad its signature tangy-sweet flavor.

¾ cup white sugar – Enhances the sweetness and balances the tang.

2 ¼ tsp white vinegar – Adds a slight acidity that lifts all the flavors.

3 tbsp yellow mustard – Infuses a bold, zesty kick.

½ tsp celery seed – A subtle seasoning that complements the crunch.

Salt and pepper to taste – Adjusts the seasoning to your preference.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Hard-Boiled Eggs

While the macaroni is cooking, place eggs in a pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice bath, then peel and chop.

3. Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Miracle Whip, sugar, vinegar, mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth. This ensures the dressing is evenly distributed.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chopped eggs, celery, bell pepper, onion, and relish. Pour the dressing over and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.

5. Chill & Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor). This allows the flavors to meld and develop the classic Amish macaroni salad taste. Stir before serving.

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Pro Tips for the Best Amish Macaroni Salad

✅ Rinse pasta with cold water – Stops cooking and keeps it from becoming mushy. ✅ Use Miracle Whip instead of mayo – It provides the signature Amish-style sweetness. ✅ Let it chill – At least 2 hours is essential for the best flavor infusion. ✅ Finely chop veggies – Ensures an even texture and better distribution of flavors. ✅ Add a splash of milk if too thick – This makes the dressing smoother and easier to mix.

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Serving Suggestions

This creamy, sweet, and tangy Amish Macaroni Salad pairs wonderfully with:

Grilled meats – Try it with BBQ ribs, steak, or smoked turkey.

Picnic classics – Serve alongside fried chicken, sandwiches, or hot dogs.

Summer potlucks – Complements dishes like baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread.

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Final Thoughts

Making homemade Amish Macaroni Salad is not only easy but incredibly rewarding. Its unique blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors makes it a standout dish at any gathering. With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try today and watch it become a family favorite!

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