Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

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Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad is everything you want in a classic southern side dish—creamy, tangy, simple, and loaded with that comforting nostalgia that makes summer gatherings unforgettable. With elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet-tangy dressing that perfectly hugs every bite, it’s no wonder this is one of Dolly’s all-time favorites.

This salad is ideal for potlucks, barbecues, and busy weeknights when you want something you can prep ahead and enjoy cold. It’s flexible, too. You can adjust the add-ins based on what you have on hand, but the magic lies in the dressing. This recipe delivers just the right amount of sweetness balanced with zip from the vinegar and creaminess from the mayo.

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What Kind of Macaroni Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is traditional for Dolly’s recipe, and there’s a good reason. The curved shape traps the dressing perfectly, giving you a creamy, flavorful bite every time. If you’re in a pinch, small shells or ditalini will work, but stick with elbows for that authentic southern charm.

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Ingredients for the Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

Elbow Macaroni: This is the foundation of the salad. Cook it until tender but not mushy—al dente is best so it holds up once mixed.

Mayonnaise: Creamy and smooth, mayo makes the dressing luscious and rich. Choose full-fat for the best flavor.

White Vinegar: Adds the much-needed tang that cuts through the creaminess and gives that Southern zip.

Sugar: Just a hint balances the acidity and adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the vinegar.

Green Bell Pepper: Brings crunch and a mild bite. It also adds a pop of color to your salad bowl.

Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and a second color contrast—this makes it visually vibrant and tasty.

Onion: Grated or finely chopped, it adds sharpness and depth. If you prefer a milder bite, soak the onion in cold water first.

Celery: Classic crunch and a fresh, clean taste that brightens the salad.

Salt & Pepper: To taste, but don’t skip it—it’s the finishing touch that ties everything together.

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How To Make the Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Taste and adjust the balance—you want a creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy base.

Step 3: Prep the Veggies

While the pasta is cooling, finely chop your green bell pepper, red bell pepper, onion, and celery. The smaller the dice, the more evenly distributed the flavor will be in each bite.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the chopped vegetables until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor. The dressing will soak in, and the flavors will deepen. Give it a gentle stir before serving, and garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper or paprika if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad

This macaroni salad is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or picnic-style lunches. Spoon it into a large serving bowl or individual cups for easy grab-and-go options at gatherings.

To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and veggies. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the mayo and veggies can become watery upon thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this macaroni salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when made a day ahead. Letting it chill overnight allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayo?

You can, but it will alter the flavor. Miracle Whip is sweeter and tangier, so adjust the sugar and vinegar accordingly.

How can I make this more protein-rich?

Add diced ham, shredded chicken, or chopped boiled eggs. These additions blend well without taking away from the classic flavor.

What if I don’t like raw onions?

Soaking chopped onions in cold water for 10 minutes mellows their sharpness. Or swap them with green onions for a milder bite.

Is this gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make it suitable.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes—just make sure your mayonnaise is dairy-free (most are), and avoid any dairy-based add-ins like cheese.

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Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love Dolly Parton’s Macaroni Salad, don’t miss these other fresh and flavorful salad creations from Life with Nina:

• Try the tangy and refreshing Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad for a satisfying crunch.
• For a fruity twist, the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Salad is both creamy and sweet.
• Brighten up your meal with the zesty Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken.
• Keep it cool and savory with the Super Crunch Salad that’s loaded with texture.
• Or indulge in a nostalgic comfort with Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites that feels like home.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can whip up this southern staple any time.

And if you give Dolly’s Macaroni Salad a try, I’d love to hear about it in the comments! Did you stick to the classic, or did you sneak in some extra veggies or protein?

Feel free to drop any questions too. Let’s swap ideas and make each dish even better together.

More daily recipes and inspiration await you on my Pinterest at Life with Nina.

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