Extra-Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe With Ham and Cheese

Extra-Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe With Ham and Cheese

This creamy macaroni salad recipe combines macaroni, ham, and cheese in a thick, extra-creamy mayonnaise dressing that coats every piece evenly. Each spoonful delivers a smooth, rich mouthfeel with a slightly sweet finish. Make it any time of the year when you want something indulgent and satisfyingly creamy without waiting for a special occasion. 

  • Prep Time

    10 mins 

  • Cook Time

    10 mins 

  • Total Time

    20 mins 

  • Serves


Ingredients

  • 200 grams uncooked salad macaroni
  • 220 ml Lady's Choice Real Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (from canned pineapple)
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon white onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup celery stalks (small cubes)
  • 1/4 cup carrots (small cubes)
  • 1/2 cup cooked ham (small cubes)
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (diced)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple tidbits (drained well and juice reserved)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • salt (to taste)
  • ground white pepper (to taste)
  • 200 grams uncooked salad macaroni
  • 220 ml Lady's Choice Real Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (from canned pineapple)
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon white onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup celery stalks (small cubes)
  • 1/4 cup carrots (small cubes)
  • 1/2 cup cooked ham (small cubes)
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (diced)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple tidbits (drained well and juice reserved)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • salt (to taste)
  • ground white pepper (to taste)

Steps

  1. Cook the Macaroni Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook until tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain well. Tip: Rinsing prevents carryover cooking and removes excess starch, keeping the pasta from turning mushy once mixed with the dressing.

  2. Prepare the Dressing Combine Lady’s Choice Real Mayonnaise, sugar, pineapple juice, pickle relish, onions, celery, and carrots in a large bowl. Mix until the sugar fully dissolves and the dressing looks smooth and creamy. Tip: Measure and prepare all ingredients before mixing so the process stays quick and organized.

  3. Add the Mix-Ins Add the cooled macaroni, ham, cheese, pineapple tidbits, and raisins to the dressing. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated. Tip: Use a spatula and fold from the bottom up instead of stirring vigorously to keep the macaroni intact.

  4. Season and Chill Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.