Sweet Amish Macaroni Salad

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Sweet Amish Macaroni Salad – A Classic, Creamy & Flavorful Side Dish

If you’ve ever had Amish Macaroni Salad from Walmart or a local deli, you know just how creamy, sweet, and tangy this dish is! This classic macaroni salad is a vintage recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s the perfect side dish for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings, as it’s both affordable and easy to prepare while serving a large group.

This Amish-style macaroni salad features tender elbow macaroni, crisp celery, sweet pickle relish, and a tangy dressing made with Miracle Whip, mustard, and sugar—a combination that creates the perfect balance of flavors. Let’s dive into this beloved recipe so you can make it at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet & Tangy Flavor – The combination of Miracle Whip, mustard, vinegar, and sugar gives this salad its signature taste.
Perfect for Large Gatherings – This recipe makes a generous amount, ideal for feeding a crowd.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepares in advance and tastes even better after chilling!
Classic Comfort Food – A nostalgic dish that brings back warm memories of home-cooked meals.

Ingredients & Their Roles

To make the best Amish Macaroni Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni – The base of the salad; cooked until tender but still firm.
  • 3 large eggs, hard-boiled – Adds richness and texture, enhancing the creamy consistency.
  • 3 sticks celery, chopped – Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the soft macaroni.
  • 1 onion, chopped or diced – Infuses the salad with a subtle bite and savory depth.
  • 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish – Adds a signature sweetness and tangy kick.
  • 3 tbsp yellow mustard – Enhances the tangy flavor and complements the sweet elements.
  • 1 small red bell pepper, chopped – A pop of color and natural sweetness.
  • 2 cups Miracle Whip salad dressing – The key to that creamy, slightly sweet dressing.
  • ¾ cup white sugar – Provides sweetness to balance the tanginess.
  • 2 ¼ tsp white vinegar – Enhances the tangy profile and balances the dressing.
  • ½ tsp celery seed – Adds a subtle earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy dressing.Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning and balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

  • Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until tender but firm.
  • Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

2. Prep the Ingredients

  • Chop the hard-boiled eggs, celery, red bell pepper, and onion into small, even pieces.
  • Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Add the sweet pickle relish for that classic sweet-and-tangy flavor.

3. Make the Dressing

  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together:
    • Miracle Whip
    • Yellow mustard
    • White vinegar
    • White sugar
    • Celery seed
    • Salt and pepper
  • Stir until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad

  • Pour the creamy dressing over the bowl of vegetables.
  • Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, then stir everything together until well coated.

5. Chill & Serve

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Amish Macaroni Salad

Use Miracle Whip, Not Mayo – The sweetness of Miracle Whip gives this dish its authentic Amish flavor.

Let It Chill – For maximum flavor, refrigerate the salad for a few hours or overnight.

Adjust Sweetness to Taste – If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar slightly.

Rinse the Pasta – This prevents stickiness and ensures the dressing coats evenly.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Crisp celery and red bell pepper add a refreshing crunch!

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Amish Macaroni Salad pairs perfectly with:

BBQ Chicken or Ribs – The sweetness of the salad complements smoky, grilled meats.
Burgers & Hot Dogs – A classic picnic or cookout combination.
Fresh Green Salad – For a lighter contrast to this creamy dish.
Potato Chips or Fries – Because who doesn’t love a little crunch on the side?

Why This Amish Macaroni Salad is a Must-Try

This old-fashioned Amish Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings, making it a staple in summer cookouts.

With simple ingredients and an easy prep process, you can whip up this classic side dish in no time! Try it today and bring the comforting taste of Amish country to your table.

Don’t forget to pin or save this recipe for your next gathering!