If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, comforting dish that brings together the best of summer flavors and creamy satisfaction, look no further than this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe. Imagine tender elbow macaroni mingling with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the irresistible crunch of smoky bacon—all coated in a tangy, luscious dressing that hits every note just right. Whether you’re gearing up for a family picnic, a potluck, or just a simple weeknight dinner side, this salad strikes the perfect balance between fresh and indulgent, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of fresh ingredients that each play a unique role. From the creamy dressing base to the colorful veggies and salty bacon, every element enhances the texture and flavor in a delightful way.
- Elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The perfect pasta shape for roomy coverage with dressing and bite-sized ease.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Adds juicy sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
- Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled): Brings rich smokiness and satisfying crunch.
- Romaine or iceberg lettuce (1 cup, chopped): Provides fresh crispness and a cool contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy backbone that holds all the flavors together.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Adds tanginess and smooth texture—Greek yogurt can also be swapped in for a lighter version.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Offers a sharp zing that brightens the whole salad.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Introduces subtle depth and a hint of spice.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for balancing and bringing out the other flavors.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just a touch of heat and complexity.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Provides mild oniony freshness and a nice crunch.
How to Make BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning tender but still with a slight bite. This texture ensures your salad won’t get mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This combination brings a creamy, tangy, and subtly savory flavor that coats every bite beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
To the prepared dressing, add the cooled macaroni and gently fold everything together. Next, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, chopped lettuce, and sliced green onions. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so the dressing envelopes each component, marrying all the flavors.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate your BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe for at least 30 minutes to let the ingredients meld and the pasta soak in the flavors. Just before serving, if you want to keep the lettuce extra crisp, stir it in last.
How to Serve BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your salad with a few extra garnishes that add flair and texture. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill brings a fresh herbal note, while extra crumbled bacon on top ensures that smoky crunch shines through. For a creamy touch, add thin slices of ripe avocado or a dusting of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Side Dishes
This BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from grilled chicken and burgers to picnic staples like hot dogs and corn on the cob. Its cool, creamy quality offers perfect relief alongside smoky or spicy mains, making it a versatile staple at any cookout or family meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the salad in hollowed-out tomato shells or individual mini lettuce cups for handheld bites. You can also layer the salad in a clear glass bowl or trifle dish to showcase the colorful layers, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crunchiness, it’s best to add the lettuce fresh just before serving if you plan to store leftovers. The dressing may thicken slightly overnight but can be gently stirred to restore creaminess.
Freezing
Freezing the BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe is not recommended as the texture of the pasta and fresh vegetables can change dramatically, becoming watery or mushy upon thawing. For best results, enjoy the salad fresh or refrigerated within a couple of days.
Reheating
This salad is intended to be served chilled, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a warmer pasta side dish with similar flavors, consider tossing the cooked pasta with bacon and a warm dressing separately prepared, but keep the salad version cold and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works wonderfully for its shape and texture, small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or even mini penne can be fun alternatives and will hold the dressing just as well.
Is there a way to make this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe healthier?
Yes! You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein. Using light mayonnaise or even avocado-based mayonnaise works well too. Adding more fresh veggies or reducing the bacon slightly can also lighten up the dish.
Can I prepare this salad the day before a party?
Definitely, but for the freshest texture, especially of the lettuce, it’s best to add the greens just before serving after chilling the main salad mixture overnight. This keeps the lettuce crisp and prevents it from wilting.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar? Can I use something else?
You can swap the apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice. These will provide the necessary acidity to brighten the dressing while keeping the flavor balanced.
How can I add more flavor to the BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe?
Try mixing in extras like diced avocado, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, or even a dash of smoked paprika. A little fresh cracked black pepper on top before serving also enhances the savory notes beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a salad that feels both laid-back and special, creamy and crunchy, simple yet bursting with flavor, this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. It’s a celebration of classic ingredients coming together in one bowl, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try—you just might find yourself making it again and again!
Print
BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including at least 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when made with gluten-free pasta)
Description
This BLT Macaroni Salad is a creamy and flavorful side dish that combines tender elbow macaroni with crisp bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce. Tossed in a tangy mayonnaise and sour cream dressing enhanced with apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, it’s an easy-to-make salad perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues. Serve chilled for a refreshing and satisfying addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Salad
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni thoroughly and rinse under cold water to cool it completely and stop the cooking process.
- Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad: Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, chopped lettuce, and sliced green onions, tossing carefully until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the salad chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For the freshest texture, consider stirring in the chopped lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp and avoid sogginess.
- Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier dressing alternative.
- Enhance the flavor by adding diced avocado or shredded cheese if desired.
