**Delicious and Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe with Cream Cheese: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Any Occasion**
When it comes to potluck gatherings, picnics, or family dinners, a well-made macaroni salad can be the star of the table. This **macaroni salad recipe with……
When it comes to potluck gatherings, picnics, or family dinners, a well-made macaroni salad can be the star of the table. This **macaroni salad recipe with cream cheese** is not just any ordinary salad; it’s a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The addition of cream cheese elevates the texture and taste, making it a unique twist on the classic macaroni salad.
**Ingredients:**
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped bell pepper (red, green, or yellow)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill (optional)
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Macaroni:** Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Ensure that it is cooked al dente to maintain a firm texture in the salad. Once cooked, drain and rinse the macaroni under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Use a whisk or a hand mixer to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your dressing.
3. **Add Flavorings:** To the cream cheese mixture, add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The vinegar and sugar will balance each other out, providing a tangy sweetness to the salad.
4. **Incorporate Vegetables:** Add the finely chopped red onion, celery, and bell pepper to the dressing. These vegetables will add a crunchy texture and a burst of color to the salad. If you’re using parsley and dill, chop them finely and add them to the mixture as well. Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor profile of the salad.
5. **Combine with Macaroni:** Gently fold the cooled macaroni into the dressing, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Take your time with this step to avoid breaking the pasta.
6. **Optional Add-ins:** If you like a bit of extra richness, you can add shredded cheddar cheese to the salad. This step is optional but highly recommended for cheese lovers.
7. **Chill the Salad:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up.
8. **Serve:** Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
**Why This Recipe Stands Out:**
This **macaroni salad recipe with cream cheese** is a delightful departure from the traditional mayonnaise-based macaroni salads. The cream cheese adds a velvety richness that pairs beautifully with the crisp vegetables and tangy dressing. The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream ensures that the salad is creamy without being overly heavy.
The use of fresh herbs like parsley and dill introduces a fresh, aromatic element that brightens up the dish. Additionally, the optional shredded cheddar cheese adds a layer of complexity and indulgence, making this salad a hit with both kids and adults.
Whether you’re preparing for a summer barbecue, a holiday feast, or a simple family meal, this **macaroni salad recipe with cream cheese** is sure to become a favorite. Its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and appealing presentation make it a versatile dish that can complement a wide variety of main courses.
In conclusion, give this **macaroni salad recipe with cream cheese** a try at your next gathering. It’s easy to make, delicious, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Enjoy!