Deviled egg macaroni salad is the perfect combination of two beloved comfort foods — creamy deviled eggs and traditional macaroni salad. This flavorful, protein-packed side dish is ideal for barbecues, potlucks, picnics, or make-ahead weekday lunches.
Rich in texture and bold in flavor, this salad is built around tender pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing infused with mustard, mayo, and a hint of spice. The result is a cool, tangy, and satisfying dish that complements grilled meats or stands alone as a hearty lunch option.
Ingredients
This recipe yields 6 to 8 servings.
- Two cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- Six large eggs
- One cup mayonnaise
- Two tablespoons Dijon mustard
- One tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- One teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Half teaspoon paprika
- One teaspoon salt
- Half teaspoon ground black pepper
- One celery stalk, finely chopped
- One quarter cup red onion, finely chopped
- One tablespoon sweet pickle relish or finely diced pickles
- One tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Preparation Time
- Total time: 35 to 40 minutes
- Active prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour or more for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just tender.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Boil the Eggs
- Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath to cool, then peel and chop finely or mash with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, hot sauce (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Salad
- Add the cooled macaroni, chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and relish to the bowl with the dressing.
- Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and a light sprinkle of paprika for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a chilled side with grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs.
- Use as a base for a protein bowl by adding extra boiled eggs or grilled tofu.
- Spoon onto a bed of lettuce or inside a sandwich for a satisfying lunch.
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
Variations to Try
- Use Greek yogurt in place of half the mayo for a lighter version.
- Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
- Substitute whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
- Include crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the pasta, which can make the salad mushy.
- Be sure to cool the macaroni and eggs fully before mixing to prevent the dressing from separating.
- Do not skip the chilling step. It allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning after chilling, as the cold can mellow some of the flavors.
Nutritional Highlights
Below is the estimated nutrition per serving based on a recipe that serves eight.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Cholesterol | 190 milligrams |
| Sodium | 420 milligrams |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Protein | 8 grams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Eggs provide a high-quality source of protein and essential nutrients like choline and vitamin D.
- Macaroni offers carbohydrates for energy, while the mayo adds creaminess and fat to satisfy hunger.
- Adding vegetables like celery and red onion boosts fiber and texture without adding many calories.
Deviled egg macaroni salad is a flavorful, creamy side dish that brings together the comforting essence of deviled eggs with the familiar satisfaction of macaroni salad. It is easy to prepare, perfect for making ahead, and endlessly adaptable to suit your flavor preferences.
Whether you are serving a crowd or making weekday lunches more interesting, this salad is sure to become a go-to favorite. Try it chilled, enjoy the tangy kick, and feel free to make it your own with mix-ins or substitutions.