Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tuna Macaroni Salad is a creamy, satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick and hearty meal. The balance of textures and flavors makes this salad a comforting and refreshing choice any time of year.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
canned tuna in water
mayonnaise
celery
red onion
sweet pickle relish
hard-boiled eggs
mustard (yellow or Dijon)
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional, for garnish)

directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped celery, diced red onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and pickle relish.

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl.

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated.

Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Sprinkle with paprika before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Add frozen peas or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Try it with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Mix in diced bell peppers or cucumbers for added freshness.
Swap tuna for cooked, shredded chicken for a different twist.

storage/reheating

Store Tuna Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture may change when thawed.
Serve chilled—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

What type of tuna is best?
Chunk light tuna in water is preferred for a lighter, flakier texture.

Can I leave out the eggs?
Yes, the eggs are optional and can be omitted if preferred.

Is this salad served cold?
Yes, Tuna Macaroni Salad is traditionally served cold.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, shells or rotini work well too.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s mild in flavor and easy to enjoy.

How do I prevent it from getting dry?
Add a little extra mayo or a splash of milk before serving if needed.

Can I add cheese?
Sure! Shredded cheddar or small cubes of cheese can be a tasty addition.

Is it good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and is great for quick lunches.

Can I make it spicy?
Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for heat.

Conclusion

Tuna Macaroni Salad is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve it at a summer barbecue or pack it for lunch, it’s a versatile dish that always satisfies. Creamy, flavorful, and full of texture, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.