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Handheld smartphone photo of Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad in a white ceramic bowl with glossy mayonnaise dressing.

Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad: The Ultimate Creamy Southern Comfort Side

A legendary Southern classic featuring elbow macaroni in a thick, glossy mayonnaise dressing with crisp red peppers and celery. Perfect for potlucks and picnics!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni 450g, cooked and cooled
  • 1.5 cups mayonnaise 350ml, full-fat for thickness
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 15ml
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar 12g
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper 2g, finely ground
  • 0.5 cup red bell pepper 75g, small precise dice
  • 0.5 cup celery 60g, crisp green dice
  • 0.25 cup onion 40g, finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large Stockpot For boiling pasta
  • 1 White Ceramic Bowl For authentic presentation

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for 8-9 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water until completely cool.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper until glossy and smooth.
  3. Finely dice the red bell pepper, celery, and onion into precise, small pieces.
  4. In a large white ceramic bowl, fold the cooled pasta, vegetables, and dressing together until thoroughly coated.

Notes

Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld.
If the salad dries out, add a tablespoon of mayo to restore the glossy finish.