There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a bowl of creamy macaroni salad — the kind that shows up at every summer picnic, family gathering, and potluck buffet. This Creamy Macaroni Salad with Peas and Carrots is a comforting classic that’s both simple and satisfying

What makes this salad special is its balance of texture and flavor: the tender pasta meets crunchy veggies, and the creamy dressing gets a lift from just the right amount of acidity. It’s a dish that feels homemade and heartwarming — a timeless recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it captures everything I crave in a classic salad: creaminess, freshness, and nostalgia.

The dressing is smooth and luscious without feeling heavy, perfectly coating every piece of pasta. The sweetness of the peas balances the tang of the mayo and vinegar, while the carrots add crunch and color. It’s simple comfort food done right — no frills, just delicious, honest flavor.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This creamy macaroni salad is a must-try because:

• It’s colorful, creamy, and fresh — a total crowd-pleaser.
• It’s quick and easy to make, with simple pantry ingredients.
• It’s make-ahead friendly — perfect for busy days and entertaining.
• It pairs with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches.
• It’s customizable — add eggs, ham, or extra veggies to make it your own!

Once you try this version, it’ll become your go-to macaroni salad recipe for every occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour (recommended)
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
• Servings: 6 servings
• Course: Side Dish / Salad
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: ~310 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup carrots, shredded or finely diced
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• ½ cup diced ham
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
4. Set aside to cool completely — this helps the dressing cling better.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. While pasta cools, prepare your vegetables:
   • Shred or dice the carrots.
   • Chop the celery and onion finely.
   • Thaw peas (run under cool water if needed).

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • Mayonnaise
   • Sour cream (if using)
   • Mustard
   • Vinegar
   • Sugar
   • Salt
   • Pepper
   • Garlic powder
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning to preference.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing bowl.
2. Gently fold in peas, carrots, celery, and onion.
3. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
   • This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken slightly.
2. Before serving, give it a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

How to Serve This Recipe

This salad is best served cold, making it ideal for warm weather or picnics.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with BBQ chicken, ribs, or burgers.
• Pair with sandwiches, grilled cheese, or fried fish.
• Serve as a light lunch topped with grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Great addition to holiday spreads, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Recipe Tips

1. Cool the pasta completely before adding dressing — warm pasta absorbs too much and can get soggy.
2. Don’t skip the vinegar — it balances the creaminess beautifully.
3. Add the dressing in stages if you prefer a lighter coating.
4. Chill before serving — it enhances the flavor and texture.
5. Taste and season before serving — pasta salads often need an extra pinch of salt after chilling.

Variations

1. Classic Deli-Style Macaroni Salad:
   Add diced hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and a touch more mustard.
2. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad:
   Add pineapple chunks and a splash of pineapple juice to the dressing.
3. Protein-Packed Version:
   Add diced ham, tuna, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
4. Spicy Macaroni Salad:
   Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or chopped jalapeños for heat.
5. Herb Lovers’ Version:
   Add chopped dill, parsley, or basil for an herby freshness.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator:
  Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may thicken slightly.
• Freezer:
  Not recommended — mayonnaise-based dressings separate and change texture when thawed.
• Make-Ahead Tip:
  Cook the pasta and prep the vegetables in advance. Combine everything and dress just before serving for best results.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk for the dressing
• Cutting board and sharp knife

FAQ

Q1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Thaw frozen peas and carrots before mixing — they work perfectly in this salad.

Q2. Can I make this a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend.

Q3. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes — you can use Greek yogurt, light mayo, or a mayo-sour cream blend for a lighter version.

Q4. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Try bell peppers, corn, or diced cucumber for extra crunch.

Q5. Why did my salad dry out?
Pasta absorbs dressing over time. Add a tablespoon or two of mayo before serving to refresh the creaminess.

Conclusion

This Creamy Macaroni Salad with Peas and Carrots is more than just a side dish — it’s a bowl of comfort, color, and classic flavor. Perfectly creamy with just the right amount of crunch, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table, whether at a picnic, barbecue, or casual dinner.

Its simplicity is its strength — humble ingredients, big flavor, and endless versatility. Whether you’re serving it alongside smoky grilled meats or enjoying it as a quick, cool lunch, this recipe will never let you down.