If you’ve ever been to a Hawaiian plate lunch spot, you know there’s always that creamy, tangy macaroni salad nestled next to the BBQ chicken, kalua pork, or teriyaki beef. This is that salad — the authentic, no-frills Hawaiian Macaroni Salad that’s been winning over locals and visitors for decades.
This recipe is simple, comforting, and just plain delicious. Perfect for backyard BBQs, picnics, luau parties, or any summer get-together. And yes — the secret is Best Foods (or Hellman’s) mayonnaise. No substitutions here!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic flavor – Tastes just like the islands.
- Easy to make ahead – Best when chilled overnight.
- Crowd-pleaser – Perfect side dish for gatherings.
- Budget-friendly – Simple ingredients you probably already have.
Tools & Gear You Might Need
- Large Mixing Bowl with Lid – Great for mixing and storing.
- OXO Box Grater – For perfectly shredded carrots and onions.
- Whisk Set – To blend that creamy dressing.
- Serving Spoon Set – Perfect for family-style gatherings.
Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb macaroni
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 carrots, shredded
- 1/4 cup onion, shredded (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise (no substitutes!)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tsp sugar
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta – Boil macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
- Add vinegar & veggies – While still hot, sprinkle vinegar over pasta, then add shredded carrots and onion. Toss well—cool 10–15 minutes.
- Mix dressing – In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.
- Combine – Fold dressing into pasta until evenly coated—season with salt and pepper.
- Chill – Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor). Stir gently before serving, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Mac Salad
- Use the right mayo – Best Foods or Hellman’s gives the signature flavor.
- Don’t skip the vinegar – It’s added to hot pasta so it soaks in for extra tang.
- Make ahead – The flavors deepen as it chills.
- Serve island-style – Pair with teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or grilled fish.
Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – Creamy Island Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta – Boil macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
- Add vinegar & veggies – While still hot, sprinkle vinegar over pasta, then add shredded carrots and onion. Toss well. Cool 10–15 minutes.
- Mix dressing – In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.
- Combine – Fold dressing into pasta until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Chill – Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor). Stir gently before serving, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Notes
- Use the right mayo – Best Foods or Hellman’s gives the signature flavor.
- Don’t skip the vinegar – It’s added to hot pasta so it soaks in for extra tang.
- Make ahead – The flavors deepen as it chills.
- Serve island-style – Pair with teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or grilled fish.
Perfect Pairings
Try serving this salad alongside:
- Slow Cooker Kalua Pork – Easy and flavorful.
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken – Sweet, savory, and smoky.
- Huli Huli Chicken Skewers – A luau favorite.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad might seem simple, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience for chilling time, you’ve got a creamy, tangy, and satisfying side dish that fits right in at any BBQ, potluck, or luau.
This recipe has been a go-to for generations in Hawaii, and once you try it, you’ll see why — it’s comforting, versatile, and pairs beautifully with just about any grilled or roasted main.
Whether you’re enjoying it on the beach in the islands or serving it up from your RV picnic table, this authentic mac salad is pure island comfort food. Make it ahead, keep it chilled, and watch it disappear faster than you can say aloha.
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