Description
This Jalapeno Popper Macaroni Salad is a creamy, flavorful twist on classic macaroni salad with spicy jalapeños, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, it combines a zesty dressing with hearty ingredients to create a satisfying side dish that’s served cold and packed with delicious flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb dried elbow macaroni pasta
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup canned jalapeños, chopped (mild preferred, can substitute with fresh chopped jalapeños)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed small or shredded (Monterey Jack or Colby Jack also work well)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (canola oil mayonnaise recommended for lower calories)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Generous pinch of black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Boil the elbow macaroni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until fully cooled to stop the cooking process and prepare for the salad.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all flavors are perfectly combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing or serving bowl, add the cooled cooked pasta, chopped jalapeños, cubed or shredded cheese, and most of the crumbled bacon. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss everything together gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill the salad: Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the salad for garnish. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill appropriately before serving.
- Serve cold: Once chilled, optionally garnish with minced fresh parsley and serve the macaroni salad cold as a flavorful and spicy side dish perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- Using canned jalapeños provides milder heat, but fresh jalapeños can be substituted for a spicier kick.
- Cook bacon until crispy and crumble finely to add a delightful crunch throughout the salad.
- Rinsing pasta with cold water stops it from cooking further and cools it for mixing with the creamy dressing.
- Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes enhances the melding of flavors.
- For a lighter version, using canola oil mayonnaise reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.
- Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best bright and tangy flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
