Bacon Club Macaroni Salad Recipe

This creamy and dreamy Bacon Club Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Crispy bacon (or savory ham!), sharp cheddar, crisp celery, and tangy olives combine with perfectly cooked macaroni in a rich mayonnaise-based dressing. A touch of horseradish adds a delightful kick! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a weeknight side dish. Easily doubled for larger gatherings.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Calories 941.3 kcal
Protein 57g
Rating 4.3 (12 Reviews)
Bacon Club Macaroni Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bacon Club Macaroni Salad

  • Elbow Macaroni
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 6 slices bacon (or 1 cup cooked and cubed ham)
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • Celery Rib
  • Green Onions
  • Black Olives
  • Mayonnaise
  • Half And Half Cream
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • Seasoning Salt

How to Make Bacon Club Macaroni Salad

  1. Cook 1 pound of macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the bacon: Cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy. Crumble. (Alternatively, use 1 cup cooked and cubed ham).
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil and 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar.
  4. Add the crumbled bacon (or ham), 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup finely chopped celery, 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions, and 1/2 cup sliced ripe olives to the bowl with the oil and vinegar.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  7. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the macaroni mixture and gently fold to combine thoroughly.
  8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill overnight.
  9. Serve cold and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

56 g

Sugar

16g

Fat

137g

Carbs

13g