Frequently Asked Questions
What is Deluxe Southern Macaroni Salad?
It is a flavorful Southern-style dish featuring shell pasta, a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese.
What is the inspiration for this macaroni salad?
This recipe brings the comforting taste of The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint in Ocean Springs, MS to your home.
What kind of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of uncooked shell pasta.
How should the shell pasta be prepared?
The pasta should be cooked until al dente according to package instructions, then drained and cooled to room temperature.
What ingredients make up the creamy dressing?
The dressing consists of mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, sugar, pepper, onion powder, salt, garlic salt, and Dijon mustard.
How much mayonnaise is needed for the salad?
This recipe requires 1 cup of mayonnaise.
Is sour cream used in the dressing?
Yes, 1/2 cup of sour cream is used to help create the creamy texture.
What provides the tangy flavor in the dressing?
The tanginess comes from 1/8 cup of cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
Is there any sugar in this macaroni salad?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/8 cup of sugar to add a touch of sweetness.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The seasoning includes 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of garlic salt.
What vegetables are added to the macaroni salad?
The salad includes 1/2 of a chopped bell pepper and 1/2 of a chopped red onion.
How much cheese is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
How should I prepare the bell pepper and red onion?
They should both be chopped into small, bite-sized pieces.
When do I combine the pasta with the dressing?
Once the pasta has cooled to room temperature, add it to the bowl with the prepared dressing and toss to coat.
How do I ensure the dressing is smooth?
Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and spices together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is well blended.
When should the vegetables and cheese be added?
Fold the bell pepper, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese into the pasta mixture after the pasta has been coated in the dressing.
Does the salad need to be refrigerated before serving?
Yes, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least one hour before serving.
Why does the salad need to chill?
Chilling the salad for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together.
How should the Deluxe Southern Macaroni Salad be served?
It should be served chilled.
Is this macaroni salad suitable for a BBQ?
Yes, it is described as a perfect dish for a BBQ or a weeknight meal.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 ingredients used in this Deluxe Southern Macaroni Salad.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include southern, macaroni salad, comfort food, weeknight meal, bbq, pasta salad, cheesy, and creamy.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
What is the final step of the instructions?
The final step is to serve the salad chilled and enjoy the taste of Southern comfort.
Is Dijon mustard required for this recipe?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard is used to enhance the flavor of the dressing.
How much onion powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
Does the recipe use garlic salt or fresh garlic?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of garlic salt.
Can I use any type of pasta?
The recipe specifically recommends uncooked shell pasta for the best results.
What is the texture of the finished salad?
It is a medley of creamy dressing, tender pasta, and crisp vegetables.
Is the cheese shredded or cubed?
The recipe specifies using 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.