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Macaroni Salad With Ham & Cheese - Creamy, Comforting, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or small shells)
  • 1 cup cooked ham, diced small
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 3/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 3/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped (or sweet pickles if you prefer)
  • 2 tablespoons pickle juice (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped; 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed); fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni in well-salted water until just past al dente. You want it tender but not falling apart. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking and remove excess starch.
  2. Season the pasta base: Transfer the drained pasta to a large bowl. Sprinkle with the pickle juice (or vinegar) while it’s still slightly warm. Toss to coat so the pasta absorbs a little tang right away.
  3. Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon, sugar or honey, garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness as needed.
  4. Prep the mix-ins: Dice the ham and cheddar into small, even pieces. Finely chop celery, red onion, red bell pepper, and pickles. If using peas, thaw them. If adding eggs, chop them now.
  5. Combine everything: Add ham, cheese, celery, onion, bell pepper, pickles, and any optional add-ins to the pasta. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until every piece is coated.
  6. Chill to set the flavor: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The salad will thicken as the pasta absorbs dressing, and the flavors will mellow and blend.
  7. Final seasoning: Before serving, stir the salad and taste again. If it feels a bit dry, add a spoonful of mayo or a splash of milk to loosen it. Adjust salt, pepper, or acid to your liking.
  8. Serve and garnish: Top with chopped parsley or chives for freshness. Serve chilled or just cool.