Name: Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

Creamy, crunchy, and full of Southern charm, Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is the kind of dish that brings a smile to the table. Inspired by Dolly’s love for classic, feel-good cooking, this version of macaroni salad is comforting, nostalgic, and surprisingly easy to throw together with pantry staples. It’s a dish that carries the warmth of a backyard picnic and the soul of a Sunday supper.

The balance of flavors is what makes this macaroni salad stand out. With its creamy dressing, tender elbow macaroni, and crisp mix-ins like bell peppers and celery, it’s simple but far from boring. Perfect for potlucks, barbecue spreads, or just as a make-ahead lunch, this is the kind of salad you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni Salad

This recipe is pure comfort. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, uses ingredients you probably already have, and tastes even better the next day. The creamy dressing gets a tangy kick from vinegar and a touch of sweetness from pickle relish, while the fresh veggies add texture that keeps every bite interesting. Whether you’re serving it with fried chicken or alongside grilled hot dogs, this salad fits in anywhere.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, and for good reason. Its small, curved shape holds onto the dressing beautifully and gives that familiar texture we all associate with macaroni salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap in small shells or ditalini, but elbow macaroni keeps this dish true to its roots.

Ingredients for the Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

This recipe is all about balance and texture, and each ingredient plays a role in making it shine.

Elbow macaroni: The tender base that soaks up all the flavor.
Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, it forms the base of the dressing.
Sweet pickle relish: Adds a little zing and sweetness.
Apple cider vinegar: Gives just the right amount of tang.
Yellow mustard: A subtle sharpness that brightens the dressing.
Sugar: Just a pinch to balance the acidity.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning and depth.
Celery: Brings crunch and freshness.
Red bell pepper: Adds color and sweet crispness.
Red onion: A little bite and beautiful color.
Boiled eggs: Creamy and protein-packed, they round out the dish.

How To Make the Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water, add the elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Prep the Mix-Ins

Chop the celery, bell pepper, and red onion into small pieces. Peel and chop the boiled eggs. Make sure everything is bite-sized so it blends well with the pasta.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the chopped vegetables and eggs. Mix until everything is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serving and Storing Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

This salad is best served cold, straight from the fridge. It feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it a great option for gatherings or weekly meal prep. After chilling, give it a gentle stir before serving. If it seems a little dry, add a spoonful of mayo to refresh it.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors get better over time, so don’t be surprised if you love it even more the next day.

What to Serve With Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad?

Fried Chicken

The crispy, juicy bite of fried chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy coolness of macaroni salad.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

A tangy pulled pork sandwich needs something mellow and rich on the side, and this salad delivers.

BBQ Ribs

For your next cookout, ribs and this salad will make a mouthwatering duo.

Cornbread Muffins

Add some sweetness and texture with a warm cornbread muffin on the side.

Deviled Eggs

Double down on the Southern charm with deviled eggs and macaroni salad at the same table.

Hot Dogs or Brats

Grilled sausages plus creamy pasta salad? Instant summer party hit.

Grilled Veggie Skewers

Looking for a lighter plate? Skewers of zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms are perfect.

Baked Beans

This classic combo brings together smoky-sweet beans and tangy pasta salad for total satisfaction.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad, check out these other creamy, fresh favorites from Janet Dishes:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can find it again when the next picnic rolls around.

I’d love to know how your version turned out. Did you add extra veggies or spice it up with hot sauce? Share in the comments below!

Explore beautifully curated comfort food dishes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next potluck favorite!

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is as timeless and beloved as the country icon herself. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always welcome on the table. From family reunions to weeknight dinners, this recipe will quickly become part of your go-to rotation.