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.

20 min.
5 People
Easy
Budget

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)

Cooking Method

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

What Is Creamy Macaroni Salad?

Creamy macaroni salad is a cold pasta dish made with al dente macaroni and a rich mayonnaise-based dressing. Filipino-style versions tend to be thicker, slightly sweeter, and more indulgent than Western savory macaroni salads. The dressing fully coats the pasta, creating that signature dense, creamy texture.

Key Ingredients of Creamy Macaroni Salad

Salad or elbow macaroni forms the base and gives the dish structure. Mayonnaise provides the creaminess of the dressing, while pineapples, onions, and pickles add contrast and brightness. Ham and cheese bring savory depth that balances the richness of the mayo.

How to Make Macaroni Salad Creamier

Use enough mayonnaise to keep the pasta generously coated, even after chilling. You can fold in a small amount of all-purpose cream or sour cream for a thicker, smoother consistency. Finely shredding the cheese instead of cubing it also helps it blend into the dressing for a more unified creamy texture.

How to Serve Creamy Macaroni Salad

Chill the salad for at least 4 hours so the dressing sets and thickens, though overnight refrigeration gives the best texture and flavor. Serve it cold to keep the mayonnaise firm and creamy. Enjoy it any day of the week or include it in larger spreads, pairing it with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or hamburger steak with gravy.

Can You Make Macaroni Salad Ahead?

Yes. The flavor improves as it rests and absorbs the dressing. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best quality. For larger portions, estimate about ½ to 1 cup per person depending on the rest of your menu.