If you’re craving a pasta salad with a twist that feels like a hug from your favorite summer BBQ, this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the smoky crunch of bacon, the fresh bite of ripe tomatoes, and crisp lettuce with tender macaroni all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, every forkful bursts with flavor and texture. This salad brings the classic BLT sandwich to a whole new level, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple family dinner where everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but magic happens when they come together. Each plays a key role, from the creamy dressing that binds everything, to the fresh veggies providing brightness and crunch, and of course the bacon adding irresistible smoky goodness.
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy dressing and mix well with all the other ingredients.
- 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled): Crispy bits of smoky bacon add savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness balance out the creamy and salty elements beautifully.
- 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce (chopped): Adds refreshing crunch and bright green color for that classic BLT feel.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that makes this salad rich and luscious.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and smoothness, elevating the dressing’s flavor complexity.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: A zingy ingredient that cuts through the richness and brings balance.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle warmth and savory note without overpowering the salad.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional): Fresh herbal notes that add a mild oniony crunch for extra zing.
How to Make BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it until it’s perfectly al dente — just tender but still with a little bite, so it holds up nicely in the salad. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta down so it won’t continue softening or stick together later.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This dressing is where all the flavors marry into a smooth, tangy, and slightly zesty coating that ties the salad together. Taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking — this is your flavor base!
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
Add the cooled macaroni to your dressing, then gently fold in the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce. Be careful not to overmix as the lettuce needs to stay crisp rather than wilted. Toss everything just enough to get every bite coated with that delicious dressing.
Step 4: Add Final Touches and Chill
Sprinkle the salad with chopped chives or green onions if you want that fresh final pop. For best results and deeper flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the salad taste even more flavorful and refreshing.
How to Serve BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A few extra fresh chives or green onions on top bring beautiful color and a delicate onion punch that compliments the smoky bacon and creamy dressing perfectly. You can even add a few halved cherry tomatoes for garnish and extra visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, or as part of a picnic spread. It can also be a stand-alone crowd-pleaser at potlucks or summer BBQs because its combination of textures and flavors satisfies everyone.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this in clear glass bowls or mason jars lets the vibrant colors shine through, making it look as delicious as it tastes. For a snack, spoon it onto crisp lettuce cups or whole-grain crackers for a fun finger food version that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Because of the fresh lettuce, it’s best to enjoy leftovers within 24 hours to keep the salad crisp and delicious without the greens becoming soggy.
Freezing
This BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the mayonnaise and fresh produce — freezing would alter the texture significantly and make it lose its fresh appeal.
Reheating
No need for reheating here since this salad tastes best chilled. If you do want a warm pasta salad experience, reserve a portion without lettuce and toss it with warm pasta, but for the classic version, keep it cool and refreshing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic here, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well too, as they hold the dressing effectively and mix nicely with the other ingredients.
Is there a lighter substitute for mayonnaise?
Yes, you can swap half or all of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light sour cream to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess and tang.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare the pasta and dressing ahead of time, but for best texture, add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
What if I want to make this vegetarian?
Simply leave out the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative. Adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the dressing can help mimic that smoky flavor.
Any suggestions for extra crunch?
Try adding diced cucumbers or red onions for more texture and a refreshing bite. Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can also bring an unexpected but delightful crunch.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something special and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, impressing friends, or just treating yourself, it’s easy to love. Give it a try, and watch it become a go-to in your recipe collection for all the sunny days ahead!
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BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus at least 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BLT Macaroni Salad is a creamy and flavorful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, combining tender elbow macaroni with crispy bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect as a summer side dish or potluck favorite, it offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
Vegetables & Greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Bacon
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically about 7-9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Make dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add garnish: Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the salad if using, and gently mix once more to incorporate.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and to serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For added crunch, toss in diced cucumbers or red onion before chilling.
- You can substitute turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter protein option.
- Add the lettuce just before serving if you prefer it extra crisp and fresh.
