If you’re looking for a rich and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is an absolute must-try. This creamy and slightly sweet salad is a staple in Hawaiian plate lunches and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a standalone dish. Its unique blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

What Makes Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Unique?

Unlike traditional macaroni salad, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad has a distinct flavor profile, thanks to the combination of apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and a creamy mayo-based dressing. The addition of grated carrots, yellow onions, and green onions enhances both the flavor and texture, giving it a fresh and slightly crunchy bite. This dish is a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess, making it a popular choice in Hawaiian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy mayo, tangy vinegar, and a touch of sweetness makes it a dish everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a picnic, or a family dinner, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a versatile side dish.
Authentic Taste: This recipe follows the classic preparation, ensuring that you get a true Hawaiian experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb macaroni noodles – The foundation of the dish, cooked to perfection.
¼ cup apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the dressing.
1 ½ cups grated carrot – Provides a subtle sweetness and a bit of texture.
⅓ cup grated yellow onion – Enhances the savory depth of the salad.
2 cups mayonnaise – Creates the rich and creamy base of the dressing.
⅓ cup milk – Helps thin out the mayo for a smooth, luscious consistency.
¼ cup brown sugar – Adds a gentle sweetness that complements the tanginess of the vinegar.
1 teaspoon pepper – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.
1 teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors of all the ingredients.
1 cup chopped green onions – Adds a fresh, slightly zesty taste to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Start by cooking the macaroni noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

2. Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Pour the apple cider vinegar over the warm macaroni and stir well. This step helps the pasta absorb the tangy flavor, giving the salad its signature taste.

3. Mix in the Carrots and Onion

Add the grated carrots and grated yellow onion to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

4. Let It Cool

Allow the macaroni mixture to cool for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from clumping together.

5. Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta is cooling, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, milk, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate medium mixing bowl. Ensure that all ingredients are fully incorporated.

6. Combine the Dressing and Macaroni

Once the macaroni has cooled, pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Stir well to ensure that every piece of macaroni is evenly coated.

7. Add the Green Onions

Fold in the chopped green onions, giving the salad a burst of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor.

8. Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours. This step is essential, as it allows the flavors to meld together for the best taste.

9. Stir and Serve

Before serving, give the salad a final stir to redistribute the dressing. Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats or on its own!

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Use Full-Fat Mayonnaise: Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is made with full-fat mayo for the richest flavor and texture.
Don’t Skip the Chilling Time: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors and creates a better texture.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
Grate the Carrots and Onions Finely: This ensures they blend seamlessly into the salad without overwhelming the texture.
Stir Before Serving: The dressing may settle as it chills, so give it a good mix before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:

With Hawaiian BBQ: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork, or seafood for an island-style feast.
As a Side for Burgers and Sandwiches: Perfect for balancing out rich, savory flavors.
At Picnics or Potlucks: This dish is great for gatherings, as it can be made ahead and served cold.
With Kalua Pork or Loco Moco: For a truly authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience.

Healthier Substitutions

If you’d like to make a lighter version of Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, consider these substitutions:

Use Greek Yogurt: Swap out half the mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories while keeping it creamy.
Use Whole Wheat Pasta: A great option for adding more fiber.
Reduce Sugar: Cut down on the brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet salad.
Use Light Mayo: For a lower-fat alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, it’s best when made a day in advance, as it allows the flavors to develop even more.

2. How Long Does Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 5 days.

3. Can I Freeze Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?

It’s not recommended, as the mayo-based dressing may separate when thawed.

4. Can I Add Other Ingredients?

Yes! Some people like to add diced ham, pineapple, or peas for extra flavor and texture.

Creamy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad 🥗🌺

Author: therecipemingle

Print Recipe

Description

Nothing says island comfort food like a big bowl of Hawaiian Macaroni Salad! This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet pasta salad is a staple at Hawaiian BBQs and potlucks. It’s packed with grated carrots, onions, and green onions, making every bite deliciously fresh and flavorful. Let it chill for a few hours, and you’ll have the perfect side dish to serve with grilled meats, seafood, or enjoy all on its own!

Ingredients

✅ 1 lb macaroni noodles
✅ ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
✅ 1 ½ cups grated carrot
✅ ⅓ cup grated yellow onion
✅ 2 cups mayonnaise
✅ ⅓ cup milk
✅ ¼ cup brown sugar
✅ 1 tsp pepper
✅ 1 tsp salt
✅ 1 cup chopped green onions (about 7 green onions)

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the macaroni noodles according to package instructions. Drain.
2️⃣ Transfer the hot macaroni to a large bowl and pour apple cider vinegar over it.
3️⃣ Stir in the grated carrot and onion and let cool for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo, milk, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5️⃣ Pour the dressing over the cooled macaroni and stir until fully coated.
6️⃣ Mix in the chopped green onions.
7️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to let the flavors meld.
8️⃣ Give it a final stir before serving and enjoy!

Notes

✔️ Let it chill—the longer it sits, the better it tastes!
✔️ For extra richness, try Duke’s or Hellmann’s mayo.
✔️ Want a little kick? Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Who’s ready to bring a little taste of Hawaii to their next meal? 🌴💛 Let me know what you’re pairing it with! 👇

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dishes. With its unique blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, it’s a perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a picnic, or just as a comforting homemade meal, this salad will be a hit with your family and friends. Try it today and bring the taste of Hawaii to your table!

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A Creamy Island-Inspired Favorite