basic cheddar macaroni salad

Cobourg, ON
Updated on Jul 3, 2025

My husband is a picky eater and complained that no one ever made a pasta salad that isn't loaded with onions and other "icky" veggies, so I came up with this basic and easy macaroni salad just for him. It is now one of the few pasta salads he will eat. For a bit more added flavor and veggies, add some grape or chopped tomato, green onion, and maybe a bit of sweet pickle. Be creative and make it with your own family's favorite flavors.

Blue Ribbon Recipe

This is an easy macaroni salad that everyone will love. Tender elbow pasta is mixed with crunchy and sweet carrots and red bell peppers, and mixed with a creamy and tangy sauce. We enjoyed the cubes of cheddar cheese throughout. It's a simple side dish that can be jazzed up to suit your taste buds. We think Tracy's suggestion of chopped tomato or green onions would be fantastic.

prep time 4 Hr 10 Min
cook time 15 Min
method Stove Top
yield 6 serving(s)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups macaroni, cooked and drained
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup carrots, chopped medium to fine
  • 1/4 cup red pepper, chopped medium to fine
  • 1 cup Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, more if needed
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • - salt and pepper, to taste

How To Make basic cheddar macaroni salad

  • Combine ingredients in a bowl.
    Step 1
    Mix all ingredients until well blended.
  • Cover and refrigerate.
    Step 2
    Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
  • Add more dressing if needed before serving.
    Step 3
    If the salad seems dry, add a bit more Miracle Whip or mayonnaise before serving. Stir again and serve.

Discover More

Category: Pasta Salads
Keyword: #macaroni
Keyword: #salad
Collection: Picnic Picks!
Collection: Summer Sippers
Ingredient: Pasta
Method: Stove Top
Culture: Canadian

Comment & Reviews

ADVERTISEMENT
Just A Pinch Sweepstakes