Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Creamy, tangy, and ultra-comforting, this Hawaiian macaroni salad is a classic plate lunch side dish. Tender macaroni absorbs a rich mayonnaise dressing with grated carrot and sweet onion for the authentic flavor and texture found throughout Hawaii.

Course BBQ Side Dish, Picnic Food, potluck, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Hawaiian, Island Cuisine

Keyword authentic hawaiian macaroni salad, bbq macaroni salad, best hawaiian macaroni salad recipe, classic hawaiian macaroni salad, cold pasta salad recipe, creamy macaroni salad, creamy pasta salad, easy hawaiian macaroni salad, hawaiian mac salad, hawaiian macaroni salad, hawaiian picnic side dish, hawaiian plate lunch macaroni salad, hawaiian side dish, homemade macaroni salad, island style macaroni salad, macaroni salad recipe, make ahead macaroni salad, plate lunch side dish, potluck macaroni salad, traditional hawaiian macaroni salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Chill time 4

Total Time 4 30

Servings 10 servings

Calories 530kcal

Cost $5 for entire recipe

Equipment

Large pot
colander
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Box grater or fine grater
measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Rubber spatula or large spoon
Airtight storage container (for chilling and storage)

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1¼ cups whole milk divided
2¼ cups mayonnaise Best Foods or Hellmann's preferred
1 medium carrot finely grated
¼ cup sweet onion finely grated
1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
Cook the macaroni until very soft, about 2 to 3 minutes beyond al dente.
Drain immediately and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
While still hot, stir in the apple cider vinegar and ¾ cup of the milk.
Let the macaroni cool completely, stirring occasionally as it absorbs the liquid.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and remaining ½ cup milk until smooth.
Stir in the grated carrot, grated onion, salt, and pepper.
Add the dressing to the cooled macaroni and stir until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Stir before serving. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen the dressing.

Notes

Cook the Pasta Until Very Tender

One of the secrets to authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad is cooking the pasta slightly beyond al dente. The softer texture allows the macaroni to absorb the dressing, creating the creamy consistency that makes Hawaiian plate lunch macaroni salad so popular.

Use Quality Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is the star of the dressing, so using a good-quality brand makes a noticeable difference. Best Foods or Hellmann's mayonnaise is traditionally used throughout Hawaii and provides the classic flavor associated with authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad.

Grate the Vegetables

Finely grated carrot and sweet onion blend smoothly into the dressing and distribute their flavor throughout the salad. Grating the vegetables instead of chopping them helps maintain the signature creamy texture while adding subtle sweetness and depth.

Don't Skip the Chilling Time

Hawaiian macaroni salad tastes best after several hours in the refrigerator. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and gives the pasta time to absorb the dressing for a richer, more cohesive flavor.

Adjust the Consistency Before Serving

The macaroni will continue absorbing liquid as it chills. If the salad seems too thick before serving, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.

Keep It Traditional

Authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad is known for its simplicity. Avoid adding ingredients like pickle relish, cheddar cheese, bacon, bell peppers, or hard-boiled eggs if you want the classic Hawaiian plate lunch experience.

Make It Ahead

This recipe is an excellent make-ahead side dish because the flavor improves as it rests. Preparing it the night before serving often produces the best texture and taste.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Hawaiian macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving and add a splash of milk if needed to refresh the dressing.