Easy Macaroni Salad

Easy Macaroni Salad is only a handful of ingredients, simple to make, and tastes great. The smokey bacon flavor adds to the deliciousness of the salad. 

Easy Macaroni Salad is great for picnics and gatherings. Or just a side dish for supper. This salad recipe just says summertime.

With the smokey bacon, tomatoes, peas (yes, peas) and purple onion, the flavors blend for a delicious and easy salad.

I like a good pasta salad, but I usually make the ones with the Italian type dressing. Like this 4 ingredient pasta salad.

In the mood for something different and having bought bacon on sale, this easy macaroni salad came to mind. I had thought about making a BLT pasta salad, but didn't have the ingredients I wanted for it. Maybe next time.

Can I Use Any Pasta Shape I Want?

Yes, You can. I like using macaroni noodles for this pasta salad recipe but you can certainly use any shape you have on hand or was on sale.

Do I have to put onions in it?

Well, no. I don't think it would have the depth of flavor however. The onions add a nice bite to the salad.

I don't like Miracle Whip Can I use mayonnaise?

Well, don't tell my husband, but yes. We only use Miracle Whip in this house however I know lots of people use mayonnaise and survive. That is said tongue in cheek. Per hubby's request, we only buy Miracle Whip. :-)

I don't have a can of peas. Can I use frozen?

Yes! I had a can of peas in my pantry so that is what I used. Be sure to drain them first. If you use frozen peas, just pop them in the recipe instead. They will thaw quickly.

How to make easy macaroni salad

The ingredients are pretty basic and you may have a lot of them on hand.

I prefer to use purple onions for this recipe because I feel they are a tad sweeter, not as strong.

Simply cook the pasta according to package directions then drain the water. Rinse the noodles well under cold water and drain again.

Stir in the cooked bacon, chopped onions, sliced tomatoes and drained peas. Fold in the Miracle Whip. You can also mix in ½ cup milk if you would like. I didn't, as I am allergic to dairy. Almond milk just wouldn't work in this salad. The milk will thicken up the dressing a little.

Feel free to add a little cheese to the top of this salad. Cheese never hurts, right?

📖 Recipe