Macaroni Salad For 100

This massive batch of macaroni salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks, church suppers, or large family reunions. It features tender cubes of fully cooked ham and elbow macaroni tossed in a rich, creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, western dressing, and a touch of sweet cream. The addition of fresh celery, onions, and bright green peas provides a wonderful crunch and color contrast. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it even more delicious the next day. Its a comforting, savory side dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Serve it cold for the best texture and flavor balance.

Cuisine: French

Courses: Salads

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 100

Calories: 3197.3

Description

This massive batch of macaroni salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks, church suppers, or large family reunions. It features tender cubes of fully cooked ham and elbow macaroni tossed in a rich, creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, western dressing, and a touch of sweet cream. The addition of fresh celery, onions, and bright green peas provides a wonderful crunch and color contrast. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it even more delicious the next day. Its a comforting, savory side dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Serve it cold for the best texture and flavor balance.

Ingredients

6 pound Fully cooked ham, cubed
6 pound Macaroni, cooked & drained
3 pound Celery, chopped (approx. 12 cups)
2 Bags Frozen peas, thawed
2 large Onions, chopped (approx. 2.5 cups)
2 cans Pitted ripe olives, drained and sliced
2 quarts Mayonnaise
1 bottle Western or French salad dressing
1/4 cup Vinegar
1/4 cup Sugar
1 cup Light cream
1.5 teaspoons Onion salt
1.5 teaspoons Garlic salt
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Pepper
1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1
In a very large mixing bowl, combine the cubed ham, cooked macaroni, chopped celery, chopped onions, thawed peas, and sliced olives.
2
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, western salad dressing, vinegar, sugar, light cream, onion salt, garlic salt, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3
Pour the creamy dressing over the ham and macaroni mixture.
4
Gently toss all ingredients together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
6
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 100

Amount Per Serving
Calories 3197.3kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 143.0g221%
Saturated Fat 80.4g403%
Cholesterol 657.2mg220%
Sodium 1100.8mg46%
Total Carbohydrate 189.0g63%
Dietary Fiber 11.6g47%
Sugars 11.2g
Protein 285.3g571%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Substitutions: If you cannot find western dressing, you can use Italian dressing or a combination of thousand island dressing.

Texture Tip: Ensure the macaroni is cooled completely before mixing to prevent the dressing from breaking.

Keywords: macaroni salad, ham salad, crowd pleaser, potluck recipe, large batch, creamy pasta salad, party food, side dish, frozen peas, celery, onion, olives, mayonnaise, western dressing, catering recipe, church supper, family reunion, chilled salad, comfort food

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/macaroni-salad-for-100-3/