Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

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If you’re looking for a side dish that brings charm, comfort, and Southern soul to your table, Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad might just be your next favorite. This creamy and colorful salad is filled with tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a perfectly seasoned dressing that keeps you coming back for more.

It’s the kind of dish you’d find at a picnic table in the Tennessee sunshine, right alongside fried chicken and sweet tea. It’s nostalgic, easy to whip up, and perfect for potlucks or summer lunches. Whether you’re a fan of Dolly or simply love a good old-fashioned salad, this one hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad

Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad checks all the boxes for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing side. It has the ideal balance of creamy and crunchy, sweet and savory. The dressing is simple yet rich, clinging to every bite of pasta with a whisper of Southern flavor. This salad holds up well in the fridge and actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.

It’s also extremely adaptable. You can play with add-ins like diced ham, pickles, or shredded cheese, but it’s just as delightful in its classic form. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find, and the preparation is incredibly forgiving.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Macaroni Salad?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice and the best for holding onto that creamy dressing. Its shape offers the perfect texture and bite-sized convenience. You can use other short pastas like small shells or ditalini, but stick to shapes with plenty of nooks and crannies to trap the dressing and extras. Just make sure not to overcook it — you want the pasta to be tender, not mushy.

Ingredients for the Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

This Southern salad keeps it simple but flavorful. Each ingredient serves its purpose to bring in texture, taste, and that nostalgic creamy finish.

• Elbow macaroni
• Mayonnaise
• Yellow mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper
• Celery
• Red bell pepper
• Green bell pepper
• Red onion
• Grated carrots

These veggies add color, crunch, and a slightly sweet contrast to the creamy base. The mustard and vinegar cut through the richness of the mayo, while the sugar ties it all together with a hint of sweetness.

How To Make the Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

While the pasta cools, finely dice the celery, red and green bell peppers, red onion, and carrots. The smaller you chop, the better the mix-in texture.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooled macaroni and chopped vegetables to the bowl of dressing. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour, preferably longer. This gives the flavors time to meld beautifully.

How to Serve and Store Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

This salad serves about 8 people as a side dish and is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a simple lunch at home. It pairs well with just about any protein, especially grilled meats or fried chicken. Serve it cold and give it a gentle stir before plating.

To store, keep the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If it looks a bit dry after a day or two, stir in a spoonful of mayo to refresh the texture.

What to Serve With Macaroni Salad?

Grilled BBQ Chicken

The smoky, sweet flavors of barbecue chicken are a natural fit for this creamy side.

Southern Fried Catfish

Crispy and golden, catfish with a squeeze of lemon takes this combo to another level.

Cornbread Muffins

Soft, buttery cornbread is a lovely balance to the tangy bite of the salad.

Baked Beans

A spoonful of hearty baked beans makes for a comforting Southern plate.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Tender and saucy, pulled pork sandwiches benefit from the fresh crunch of this salad.

Deviled Eggs

A classic pairing at any picnic or cookout, deviled eggs bring their creamy richness to the table.

Pickle Spears

The acidity and crisp texture of pickles give a sharp contrast that complements the creamy salad.

Want More Salad Ideas with Southern Charm?

If this creamy classic won your heart, don’t stop here. You’ll love exploring more of these delightful recipes:

• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad if you’re craving a twist on two classics in one bowl.
• Apple Salad for a crisp, fruity bite perfect for warm days.
• Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes when you want a tangy, refreshing side.
• Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono if you want something light, cozy, and vibrant.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup for a heartier take on comforting bowls.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add anything special to make it your own? Maybe a dash of hot sauce or some sweet pickle relish?

I love seeing how others enjoy these classics. Got a question? Pop it below — let’s help each other master the perfect macaroni salad.

Explore beautifully curated Southern comfort dishes and healthy twists on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite: Luna Meals on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is more than just a side dish — it’s a hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients and comforting flavors, it brings a little sunshine to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a big summer gathering or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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