Guy Fieri’s Macaroni Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for macaroni salad, but you can substitute with whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for creaminess and added protein. Vegans can use plant-based mayo.

Dijon Mustard: You can replace Dijon with yellow mustard for a milder flavor. If you prefer a bit of kick, spicy brown mustard works great too!

Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies like peas, corn, or chopped cucumbers for a fresh twist. If red onions are too strong for you, use green onions or chives instead.

Bacon: For a vegetarian option, consider adding smoked paprika or smoked tofu for that bacon flavor without the meat.

How Do I Make Sure My Macaroni Isn’t Soggy?

Overcooked pasta can ruin your macaroni salad, so cooking it just right is key! To get perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, follow these simple steps:

• Use a large pot with plenty of salted water; this helps the pasta cook evenly.
• Cook according to package instructions, checking a minute or two before the time is up. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite.
• Once done, drain the pasta immediately and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from getting mushy.
• Let the pasta cool completely before mixing it with the dressing, ensuring it stays firm and delicious.

How to Make Guy Fieri’s Macaroni Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (for added flavor)

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This yummy macaroni salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to chill in the fridge. So, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can dig in! Perfect for a side dish at a picnic or barbecue.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente (tender but still firm). When done, drain it in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a big mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing will give your salad a delicious flavor!

3. Combine the Macaroni and Dressing:

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir it around until all the pasta is evenly coated with that tasty dressing.

4. Add Veggies and Optional Bacon:

Now it’s time to fold in the yummy veggies! Gently mix in the diced celery, red bell pepper, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and green onions. If you’re a fan of bacon, sprinkle in the crumbled bacon for that extra touch of flavor!

5. Season to Taste:

Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt and pepper to make the flavors pop!

6. Chill Before Serving:

Cover your macaroni salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets all those delicious flavors blend together.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s chilled, serve your Guy Fieri-inspired macaroni salad right out of the fridge. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta Instead of Elbow Macaroni?

Absolutely! Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions specific to the gluten-free pasta you choose, as they may require different cooking times. Rinse under cold water after cooking, just like regular macaroni, to keep it from sticking together.

What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?

No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or lemon juice. Both will provide a nice tang, though the flavor will slightly differ. Start with the same amount and adjust to taste.

How Long Will Leftovers Last?

Your macaroni salad will last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days if stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken or separate.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like peas, corn, or even some diced pickles for extra crunch. You can also substitute the bacon for leftover rotisserie chicken for a protein boost!