If you’re craving a dish that beautifully blends the smoky crunch of bacon, the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, and the cool crispness of lettuce all tossed with tender macaroni, then this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It takes everything you love about a classic BLT sandwich and transforms it into a creamy, refreshing pasta salad that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a delightful weeknight side. Every bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug from an old friend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients, each carefully chosen to contribute a specific taste, texture, or color that makes the salad irresistible. From the creamy dressing to the fresh veggies and crispy bacon, every component plays a starring role.
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape offers the perfect bite-sized base to soak up the dressing.
- 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky, savory crunch that’s absolutely essential.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Brings a juicy sweetness and vibrant red color to the salad.
- 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce: Provides a refreshing crispness that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy foundation that binds everything beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with a hint of citrusy zing.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle sharpness and depth to the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances overall flavor with a gentle garlicky warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional): For a fresh, herby garnish that brightens the presentation and taste.
How to Make BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—firm but tender. This ensures your pasta holds up beautifully without turning mushy once mixed with the creamy dressing. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While your pasta is cooling, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This dressing is where the magic happens, balancing tangy, creamy, and savory notes that will coat every bite of macaroni.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. Now fold in the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce with care to keep the lettuce from wilting prematurely. The contrast of crispy bacon and fresh veggies mixed with creamy pasta is what makes this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe stand out.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For best results, chill your salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marry and the salad to refresh perfectly. Just before serving, toss again lightly and add chopped fresh chives or parsley if you like to add that extra pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chives or curly parsley makes a stunning garnish for your BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe. These herbs not only add vibrant green hues but also add a subtle oniony or fresh flavor that plays beautifully with the smoky bacon and creamy dressing.
Side Dishes
This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, or even a simple steak. It’s also fantastic alongside classic summertime fare like corn on the cob or baked beans, making it a crowd-pleasing side dish any time of year.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a gathering, try serving the salad in individual mini mason jars or lettuce cups for a charming presentation. You could also top it with a few extra crispy bacon crumbs and a cherry tomato half per serving to elevate the look and make your BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe feel special and Instagram-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the lettuce crisp, it’s best to add it fresh just before serving whenever possible, especially if you make the salad a day ahead.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing. The mayonnaise and fresh veggies can separate or become watery after thawing, which impacts texture and flavor. Instead, enjoy it fresh or chilled within a few days for the best experience.
Reheating
This dish is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warmer side, try pairing the salad fresh alongside hot entrees rather than warming the salad itself.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small pasta shapes like rotini or shells also work beautifully, as they hold the creamy dressing well and mix nicely with the other ingredients.
Is there a lighter version of this salad?
Yes, you can swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt to lighten the dressing without sacrificing tang or creaminess. Also consider using turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.
Should I add the lettuce ahead of time?
For best texture, add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp. If mixed too early, the lettuce tends to wilt, making the salad less fresh.
Can I make this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Use dairy-free mayonnaise and substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or omit it entirely to suit your dietary needs without losing the flavor balance.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can prepare the salad base (macaroni, dressing, bacon, tomatoes) up to a day ahead, then add the lettuce and fresh herbs right before serving for the freshest result.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyful about this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe. It effortlessly combines familiar flavors with simple ingredients into a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Give it a try for your next meal or gathering — trust me, it’s a crowd favorite that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection!
Print
BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and refreshing BLT Macaroni Salad combining the classic flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato with tender elbow macaroni tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a side dish for summer gatherings or picnic meals.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
Bacon
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the pasta with the dressing: Add the cooled macaroni into the bowl with the dressing and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Combine the salad ingredients: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce until everything is well incorporated but the lettuce remains crisp.
- Adjust seasoning and chill: Taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Cover and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley if desired. For best texture, add the lettuce just before serving if preparing ahead.
Notes
- For best texture, add the lettuce just before serving if making the salad in advance to prevent wilting.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to create a lighter dressing option.
- This salad can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh.
