Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad


This Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad is a bold, creamy, and slightly spicy twist on traditional macaroni salad. Inspired by the flavors of jalapeño poppers—creamy cheese, spicy peppers, and crispy bacon—this dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side at your next BBQ. With its cool, tangy dressing and pops of heat, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make and utterly addictive. Let’s get mixing!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (pickled or fresh, depending on your spice preference)
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4–6 slices)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 green onions , sliced (for garnish)

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • Salt and black pepper , to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. While the pasta cools, shred the cheddar cheese, dice the jalapeños, crumble the bacon, and chop the red onion.
    • Pro Tip: If using fresh jalapeños, remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, or leave them in for extra spice.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  1. Add the cooled macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion to the bowl with the dressing.
  2. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color.

Step 6: Adjust and Enjoy


 

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