Description
This Jalapeno Popper Macaroni Salad recipe combines the flavors of a classic jalapeno popper with creamy macaroni salad, creating a delicious and zesty dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 1 lb dried elbow macaroni pasta
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Generous pinch of black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned jalapeños, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed small or shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh parsley, minced for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and most of the bacon. Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss to combine.
- Chill and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with minced parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can use fresh chopped jalapeños instead of canned for a spicier kick.
- Feel free to customize the cheese selection based on your preferences.
- This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: jalapeno popper macaroni salad, macaroni salad recipe, jalapeno macaroni salad
