Description
Creamy, tangy, and loaded with crunch—this Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad is your new go-to for cookouts, potlucks, and anytime you need a crowd-pleasing side. With bold chunks of cheddar, a rich sour cream-mayo base, and fresh veggies throughout, it’s comfort food that brings the flavor. Doubled and leveled up for serious salad fans!
Ingredients
2 lbs elbow macaroni (or ziti)
3 cups mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced (adds sweetness + color)
2 medium red onions, finely chopped
2 large carrots, shredded
4 celery stalks, finely diced
1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
4 tbsp diced pimientos + their liquid
2 tsp celery salt (or to taste)
2 tsp celery seed (or to taste)
4 tsp white sugar
Juice of 1 lemon (for brightness)
2 lbs block cheddar cheese, cubed
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook macaroni al dente according to package directions. Rinse with cold water and drain well.
In a large bowl, whisk mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, sugar, pimiento juice, celery salt, celery seed, and paprika.
Add cooled pasta to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
Fold in all chopped vegetables, parsley, pimientos, and cheddar cubes.
Season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 2 hours to let flavors blend.
Garnish with extra parsley or cheddar before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 430kcal / Serving
- Fat: 30g / Serving
- Carbohydrates: 34g / Serving
- Protein: 13g / Serving