Homestyle Amish Macaroni Salad

This version stays true to the traditional Amish-style macaroni salad you’d find at
old-fashioned deli counters. Creamy, slightly sweet, and gently tangy, it gets its
signature flavor from Miracle Whip, a touch of sugar, and just enough celery seed
to make it unforgettable.

If you’re looking for a reliable, nostalgic side dish that pairs beautifully with
grilled meats, sandwiches, or fried chicken, this Amish Macaroni Salad belongs in
your recipe box.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Macaroni Salad

• Perfectly creamy with a balanced sweet-and-tangy flavor
• Classic Amish-style taste you can’t get from store-bought salads
• Simple ingredients, easy preparation
• Ideal for summer cookouts, picnics, and potlucks
• Even better after chilling, making it great for make-ahead meals

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 2½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• ¼ cup sweet onion, finely diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced

For the Dressing

• 2 cups Miracle Whip
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
• 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar
• ¾ teaspoon celery seed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Amish Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook
for 8–10 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.

Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove
excess starch. Set aside and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Miracle Whip, dill pickle relish, yellow mustard,
sugar, vinegar, celery seed, salt, and black pepper.

Whisk until smooth and creamy, making sure the sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the dressing.

Gently fold in the chopped eggs, onion, celery, and red bell pepper.
Stir carefully so the eggs stay in nice chunks.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

This chilling time is essential. It allows the macaroni to absorb the flavors
and gives the dressing its classic thick, creamy texture.

Tips & Substitutions

Miracle Whip vs. Mayonnaise:
Miracle Whip is what gives Amish macaroni salad its signature tangy-sweet flavor.
If you prefer to use mayonnaise, add an extra splash of vinegar and a bit more sugar
to mimic the traditional taste.

Vegetable swaps:
You can add shredded carrots or peas for extra color and crunch.

Make it lighter:
Use light Miracle Whip and reduce the sugar slightly.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make-ahead: This salad actually tastes better the next day.
• Stir before serving: If it thickens too much, add a spoonful of milk or dressing.

What to Serve With Amish Macaroni Salad

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled burgers, hot dogs, barbecue chicken,
fried chicken, pulled pork, or simple sandwiches.