BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to combine the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with the comforting, creamy goodness of macaroni salad, you’re in for a treat. This BLT macaroni salad is a delightful twist on two beloved staples: the crisp, smoky taste of bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes paired with the soft, tender texture of pasta coated in a rich, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a hearty lunch, this recipe brings together flavors and textures in a way that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the salad, you will need:

• 3 cups elbow macaroni

• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 2 cups finely shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced (optional, but adds a nice bite)

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Al dente pasta provides a slight chewiness that helps the salad hold its texture when mixed with creamy dressing and crisp vegetables. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

While the pasta cooks, it’s time to cook the bacon. You can fry it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or bake it on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes. Baking tends to produce evenly crispy bacon and less mess. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. When cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces. The smoky, salty flavor of bacon is the foundation of this salad, so don’t skimp on quality or crispiness.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Next, wash and prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes for juicy bursts of flavor throughout the salad. Finely shred the lettuce so that it mixes well with the macaroni without overpowering it. If using red onion, dice it into small pieces to add a mild tang and crunch. The combination of fresh vegetables adds color, texture, and brightness, balancing the richness of the bacon and dressing.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. The dressing should be tangy but not overpowering, complementing the flavors of the bacon and vegetables while coating the pasta in a luscious, velvety layer. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary; a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the overall flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

With all components prepared, it’s time to assemble the salad. Start by adding the cooked, cooled macaroni to a large mixing bowl. Toss in the shredded lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and crumbled bacon. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently fold everything together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the integrity of the pasta and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Step 6: Chill and Marinate

For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, making the bacon slightly more savory, the tomatoes juicier, and the dressing fully infused into every bite of macaroni. This step also firms up the salad slightly, which helps with presentation if serving at a party or picnic.

Step 7: Serving Suggestions

BLT macaroni salad is versatile. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs at a barbecue. It’s also a perfect addition to a lunch buffet or potluck. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of paprika, or a few torn fresh basil leaves. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or reduce the cheese slightly.

Tips and Variations

1. Bacon Alternatives: If you want to make this recipe a little healthier, consider using turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile but still retain the essential smoky note.

2. Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a creamy, smoky flavor.

3. Pasta Options: Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells, rotini, or even bowtie pasta work well and can give a slightly different texture to the salad.

4. Vegetable Additions: For added crunch and nutrition, try mixing in diced bell peppers, cucumber, or even roasted corn.

5. Herbs and Flavor Enhancements: Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill can brighten up the dish. A touch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing can elevate the flavor profile further.

6. Make-Ahead Tips: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep or party planning. However, to prevent the lettuce from wilting, consider adding it just before serving if making a day in advance.

Conclusion

BLT macaroni salad is a playful, comforting, and satisfying dish that combines the best of two worlds: the familiar flavors of a BLT sandwich and the creamy texture of macaroni salad. Its combination of smoky bacon, fresh vegetables, rich dressing, and tender pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With options to customize the ingredients, adjust the dressing, or add your favorite extras, this recipe is flexible and adaptable, allowing you to put your own spin on a classic favorite. Whether for a picnic, a backyard barbecue, or a simple family dinner, this BLT macaroni salad will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Enjoy the blend of creamy, crunchy, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite, and prepare for requests to bring it again and again. The salad not only satisfies cravings for comfort food but also impresses with its presentation and complexity of flavor, proving that a pasta salad can be just as exciting as a gourmet dish.