Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe

Zesty Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe for Sunny Gatherings

Crafting a delicious deviled egg macaroni salad brings pure comfort to your summer gatherings.

Memories of picnics and potlucks dance through this creamy classic.

Tangy mustard and rich egg yolks create a perfect harmony of flavors.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with crisp, fresh ingredients.

Pasta shells capture every delightful bite of seasoned goodness.

Unexpected twists make this recipe a crowd-pleasing sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients List for Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

For the Carbohydrate Base:
  • Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that provides a sturdy foundation for the salad.
For the Protein Components:
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs: Primary protein source that adds richness and classic deviled egg flavor to the salad.
For the Dressing and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy base that binds the ingredients and provides a smooth texture.
  • Yellow Mustard: Adds tangy sharpness to complement the rich egg flavor.
  • Sweet Pickle Relish: Introduces a sweet and tangy element that balances the salad.
  • Smoked Paprika: Provides a smoky depth and vibrant color to the dressing.
For the Aromatic and Crunchy Elements:
  • White Onion, Celery: Add crisp texture and fresh, sharp flavors to the salad.
For the Seasoning:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the salad.

How to Make Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad at Home

How to Make Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad at Home

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook elbow macaroni in a pot of salted water following package instructions until perfectly tender. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down quickly.

Let the pasta sit and drain completely.

Step 2: Prep Eggs

Gently peel the hard-boiled eggs, carefully separating the yolks from the whites.

Chop the egg whites into small, bite-sized pieces. Place the golden yolks in a mixing bowl and mash them thoroughly with a fork until they become crumbly.

Step 3: Create Creamy Dressing

Add these ingredients to the mashed egg yolks:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Yellow mustard
  • Sweet pickle relish
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with a vibrant yellow color.

Step 4: Combine Salad Components

In a large mixing bowl, toss together:
  • Cooled macaroni
  • Chopped egg whites
  • Finely diced onion
  • Chopped celery

Step 5: Mix and Dress

Pour the creamy egg yolk dressing over the pasta mixture.

Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every pasta piece and vegetable is evenly coated with the tangy dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Develop Flavors

Cover the bowl with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap.

Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to blend and intensify. The longer it chills, the more delicious it becomes.

Smart Tips for Creamy Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

  • Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to let the spices and ingredients blend perfectly, creating a more delicious taste profile.
  • Finely chop egg whites for a smoother consistency or leave them slightly chunky for added texture and visual appeal.
  • Adjust mayonnaise quantity based on desired creaminess, adding small amounts gradually to prevent the salad from becoming too wet.
  • Sprinkle chopped chives or dill on top just before serving to introduce a fresh, vibrant element to the classic macaroni salad.
  • Start with smaller amounts of mustard and smoked paprika, tasting and adjusting to match your preferred flavor strength.

Flavorful Twists on Deviled Egg Macaroni Side Dish

  • Spicy Southwest: Add diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and replace yellow mustard with chipotle mustard for a zesty kick.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and replace pickle relish with sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Herb Garden: Incorporate fresh chopped dill, chives, and parsley into the dressing, and add extra fresh herbs as garnish for brightness.
  • Protein Power: Fold in diced grilled chicken or crispy bacon bits to create a more substantial meal-worthy salad.

Best Pairings With Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad

  • Pair Creamy Comfort with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy, rich flavors of the deviled egg macaroni salad, cutting through its creamy texture with bright, zesty notes.
  • Enhance with Smoky BBQ Protein: Grilled chicken or pulled pork creates a perfect protein partner, matching the salad's smoky paprika undertones and providing a satisfying meat contrast.
  • Crunch Up with Fresh Side Salad: A light, green salad with cucumber and herb vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the dense, creamy macaroni salad, balancing its richness with crisp, clean flavors.

How to Store Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Properly

Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping it fresh and preventing bacterial growth.

Do not freeze this salad, as mayonnaise-based dressings separate and become watery, compromising texture and taste when thawed.

Enjoy this dish cold straight from the refrigerator, as reheating will make the pasta mushy and mayonnaise-based dressing unappetizing.

Before serving chilled leftovers, gently stir the salad to redistribute the dressing and restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes better when prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to blend and develop more depth in the refrigerator.

  • Is this macaroni salad gluten-free?

No, traditional elbow macaroni contains wheat. You’ll need to use gluten-free pasta if you want a gluten-free version of this recipe.

  • How long will the deviled egg macaroni salad stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

  • Can I substitute ingredients in the dressing?

While the current dressing creates a classic flavor, you can experiment with different mustards or replace sweet pickle relish with chopped dill pickles for a slightly different taste profile.

Why Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Is So Satisfying

  • Elevate Your Potluck Game: This recipe transforms a classic side dish into a crowd-pleasing sensation that will make you the star of any gathering.
  • Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll create a creamy, tangy salad that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust the seasoning or add extra ingredients like crispy bacon or chopped herbs to make this recipe uniquely yours.
  • Perfect Summer Sidekick: Ideal for backyard barbecues, picnics, and family reunions, this macaroni salad brings cool, creamy goodness to any outdoor meal.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe

Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy deviled egg macaroni salad blends classic picnic favorites into one irresistible dish. Cool pasta swirled with tangy mayo, zesty mustard, and rich egg crumbles will make you the star of summer gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Eggs:

  • 3 cups (720 milliliters) elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 10 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) celery, diced

Dressing and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) sweet pickle relish
  • 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for 8-10 minutes until tender. Drain and cool completely under cold running water, then set aside.
  2. Carefully separate hard-boiled egg yolks from whites. Finely dice egg whites and reserve. Crush egg yolks into fine crumbles using a fork.
  3. Create a creamy dressing by whisking mashed egg yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-incorporated.
  4. Combine cooled macaroni with chopped egg whites, diced onion, and chopped celery in a spacious mixing bowl.
  5. Drizzle prepared dressing over pasta mixture, gently folding to ensure even coating and distribution of ingredients.
  6. Seal bowl with lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to allow flavors to harmonize and salad to chill thoroughly.

Notes

  • Adjust the mustard’s intensity by starting with less and tasting, ensuring the flavor doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.
  • Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or vegan mayo to create a lighter, healthier version that caters to different dietary preferences.
  • Enhance the crunch by adding toasted sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for extra texture and nutty flavor without compromising the classic deviled egg profile.
  • Make ahead and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify while maintaining optimal freshness.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 345 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 155 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star