Macaroni Salad For 100
Description
This classic macaroni salad is a crowd-pleasing staple for large gatherings, potlucks, and family reunions. Combining tender elbow macaroni with savory cubed ham, sweet thawed peas, crunchy celery, and sharp onions, this dish offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The creamy dressing binds everything together, making it refreshing when served cold or room temperature. Its incredibly easy to scale up, ensuring you can feed a large group with minimal stress. The addition of pitted olives adds a subtle briny note that complements the richness of the cheese and ham. This versatile dish can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Its a comforting, satisfying side that pairs well with grilled meats or stands alone as a substantial main course for casual events.Ingredients
Directions
-
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool completely.
-
In a very large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cubed ham, thawed peas, chopped celery, chopped onions, and sliced olives.
-
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
-
Pour the dressing over the macaroni and vegetable mixture. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
-
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the salad.
-
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to large serving containers. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
-
Stir well before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
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.
macaroni salad, ham salad, party food, potluck, crowd pleaser, creamy pasta, large batch, catering, side dish, main course, summer picnic, family reunion, make ahead, comfort food, cheese, peas, celery, onions, olives
