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Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Classic)

Creamy mayonnaise macaroni salad, a plate-lunch essential.

⏱ 15 minPrep time
🔥 10 minCook time
🍽 8Servings
🏷 Side DishCategory
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Hawaiian Macaroni Salad - creamy macaroni salad with carrots and paprika

Creamy mayonnaise macaroni salad, a plate-lunch essential.

The plate lunch’s second scoop

Every plate lunch needs two scoops of rice and this creamy, slightly tangy mac salad — the side that defines local food.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Cook the macaroni until just tender, about 8 minutes; drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Whisk the mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Toss the macaroni with the dressing, then fold in the carrots, celery, onion, and eggs.
  4. Cover and chill at least 2 hours — overnight is better.
  5. Stir and add a splash of milk before serving if it looks dry.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Hawaiian mac salad is meant to be overdressed — the pasta absorbs the mayo as it chills. Don't skimp on the dressing.

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Recipe details

Prep15 min
Cook10 min
Servings8
CategorySide Dish
PublishedAugust 16, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →