Home » Side Dishes » Herbed Bacon Macaroni Salad

Herbed Bacon Macaroni Salad

Herbed Bacon Macaroni Salad

Imagine a summer potluck where everyone can't stop talking about YOUR incredible side dish. This isn't just any ordinary macaroni salad – it's a flavor-packed, crispy bacon-loaded sensation that transforms the classic picnic staple into a gourmet experience. With a perfect blend of creamy mayonnaise, zesty Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs, this Herbed Bacon Macaroni Salad is about to become your new go-to recipe that will have friends and family begging for seconds!

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 8 oz elbow macaroni
  2. 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  3. 1 cup mayonnaise
  4. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  5. 1/2 cup diced celery
  6. 1/2 cup diced red onion
  7. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add elbow macaroni to boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. While pasta is cooking, prepare the bacon. Cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease.
  4. Once bacon is cool, crumble into small pieces and set aside.
  5. Drain cooked macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, diced celery, diced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. Whisk together until well combined.
  7. Add cooled macaroni to the mayonnaise mixture and gently fold to coat evenly.
  8. Fold in crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
  10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
  11. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with remaining bacon crumbles and additional parsley if desired.

Tips

  1. Cook pasta al dente: Don't overcook the macaroni – you want a slight bite to maintain texture.
  2. Cool pasta completely: Rinsing with cold water stops cooking and prevents a mushy salad.
  3. Use high-quality bacon: Thick-cut bacon provides more flavor and crispier crumbles.
  4. Chill before serving: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor melding.
  5. Fresh herbs make a difference: Use freshly chopped parsley for the brightest flavor.
  6. Customize to taste: Feel free to add extra ingredients like diced pickles or a dash of hot sauce for personal flair.
  7. Make ahead friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 480kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g

Protein: 12g

Fat: 35g

Saturated Fat: 8g

Cholesterol: 35mg

Pin Recipe Share Email

Share this:

Leave a Comment