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Creamy Loaded Macaroni Salad with Ham and Cheddar

creamy loaded macaroni salad - featured image
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A creamy, tangy macaroni salad loaded with smoky ham, sharp cheddar, and crisp veggies, perfect for summer parties and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 1 cup diced ham (preferably smoked or honey-glazed)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually 7–8 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. To the cooled pasta, add 1 cup diced ham, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1/2 cup chopped celery, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, and 3 sliced green onions. Toss gently to combine evenly.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente and rinse under cold water immediately to prevent mushiness. Mix dressing separately before combining. Chill at least 1 hour for best flavor. If dry after chilling, stir in extra mayo or sour cream. Reserve some cheese or ham for garnish.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, creamy salad, ham and cheddar, summer party recipe, potluck dish, easy side dish

Find it online: https://tomyumy.com/creamy-loaded-macaroni-salad-with-ham-and-cheddar-easy-recipe-for-summer-parties/