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Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad

Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad: Creamy Comfort for All

Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy side that captures the essence of summer picnics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Ziti Pasta Any short pasta shape can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise May substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Mexican Crema can be used for a sweeter twist.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Yellow bell pepper is a substitute.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1 medium Carrot Can be grated or diced.
  • 1 stalk Celery Green onions may be used as a milder alternative.
  • 1 tsp Celery Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Celery Seed Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 cup Diced Pimentos Optional but recommended.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Gouda or Pepper Jack can be substituted.
  • 1 tsp White Sugar Adjust or omit based on preference.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Cheese Grater

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water, add the ziti pasta, and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Finely dice the red onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Combine in a large bowl and sprinkle with celery salt, celery seed, and diced pimentos.
  3. Grate the carrot and chop shreds further before adding to the bowl of vegetables. Mix well.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and white sugar until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Pour dressing into the bowl with vegetables and toss. Fold in the cooled pasta, ensuring an even coating.
  6. Dice cheddar cheese and fold into the mixture.
  7. Cover and chill in the fridge for 4-6 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Allow it to sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours when serving.

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