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BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

4.9 from 513 reviews

This BLT Macaroni Salad combines classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato flavors with tender elbow macaroni, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for summer picnics or as a hearty side dish, this chilled salad is easy to make and packed with fresh ingredients and savory bacon goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni

Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Salad Mix-Ins

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
  • 2 cups lettuce, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
  2. Make the dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well blended to create a flavorful dressing.
  3. Toss macaroni with dressing: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly, ensuring the pasta absorbs the flavors.
  4. Add the fresh ingredients: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cooked bacon, and chopped lettuce to combine without bruising the vegetables.
  5. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly for best taste.
  6. Final seasoning and serve: Before serving, toss the salad once more and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled and enjoy the vibrant blend of BLT flavors in this satisfying macaroni salad.

Notes

  • For best texture, be sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier and lighter dressing.
  • Bacon can be cooked in the oven or stovetop according to your preference, but crisp bacon adds the best texture.
  • This salad is best served chilled and can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Add other veggies like diced cucumber or red onion for extra crunch and flavor.

Keywords: BLT macaroni salad, bacon lettuce tomato pasta salad, creamy macaroni salad, picnic macaroni salad, easy pasta salad