KFC Macaroni Salad

This is a salad that everyone seems to love. You can double or triple this recipe to make enough for a crowd.

KFC’s Macaroni Salad is a classic and refreshing side dish that perfectly complements their famous fried chicken and other menu items. Made with simple ingredients and a creamy dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

The base of KFC’s Macaroni Salad is cooked elbow macaroni, which provides a soft and chewy texture. The addition of finely minced celery and diced sweet pickles adds a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to the dish. These ingredients also contribute to the salad’s overall freshness and vibrant taste.

The creamy dressing is what brings all the flavors together in this macaroni salad. A combination of Miracle Whip and mayonnaise creates a luscious and tangy coating that coats every bite of the macaroni, celery, and pickles. The dressing is seasoned with black pepper, dry mustard, sugar, and a touch of salt, enhancing the overall taste profile and giving the salad a well-balanced savory-sweet flavor.

The KFC Macaroni Salad is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify. It is a versatile side dish that pairs well with various meals, from picnics and barbecues to family dinners and gatherings. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside KFC’s signature fried chicken, this macaroni salad is a classic comfort food that continues to be a favorite among many KFC customers.

SERVES: 6–8

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 ounces cooked elbow macaroni
• 2 stalks finely minced celery
• 1 tablespoon dry minced onion
• 1/3 cup diced sweet pickles
• 1½ cups Miracle Whip
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl with a lid, combine the cooked macaroni, minced celery, dry minced onion, and diced sweet pickles.
3. Add the Miracle Whip and mayonnaise to the bowl and mix everything together until well combined.
4. Season the salad with black pepper, dry mustard, sugar, and salt to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
5. Cover the bowl tightly with the lid and refrigerate the salad for several hours before serving. Chilling the macaroni salad allows the flavors to meld together and enhances its taste.
6. Serve the macaroni salad chilled as a delicious and creamy side dish for your meals. Enjoy!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Classic Fried Chicken Meal: Serve the Macaroni Salad as a classic side dish alongside KFC’s famous fried chicken. The creamy and refreshing flavors of the salad will balance the richness of the chicken, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
• Picnics and BBQs: Pack the Macaroni Salad in a portable container and bring it along for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings. Its cool and creamy texture makes it a refreshing addition to summer menus.
• Potluck Parties: Impress your friends and family at potluck events by bringing a bowl of KFC’s Macaroni Salad. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with a variety of other dishes.
• Sandwich Fillings: Use the Macaroni Salad as a delicious filling for sandwiches and wraps. Its creamy consistency and tangy flavor will elevate the taste of any sandwich, from classic turkey to vegetarian options.
• Side for Grilled Meats: Serve the Macaroni Salad as a side dish for grilled meats like burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ chicken. The combination of flavors adds a delightful contrast to the savory meats.
• Family Gatherings: Bring the Macaroni Salad to family gatherings and reunions. Its nostalgic flavors are sure to evoke fond memories and become a hit among both kids and adults.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy the Macaroni Salad as a light and satisfying lunch on its own. It makes for a quick and easy meal when you want something tasty yet not too heavy.
• Tailgate Parties: When cheering for your favorite sports team at a tailgate party, offer the Macaroni Salad as a delightful side option. Its creamy goodness will be a winner with sports fans.