Picnic Perfect Macaroni Salad Recipe: A Must-Have Summer Side Dish

When it comes to classic summer recipes for picnics, barbecues, and backyard cookouts, macaroni salad is always a favorite. But if you’re looking to move beyond the basic bowl, this Picnic Perfect Macaroni Salad recipe is exactly what you need! Bursting with smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, and sweet pickle relish, it’s a creamy macaroni salad that everyone will rave about.

Whether you’re planning a family gathering or need a quick dish for a potluck, this easy macaroni salad is your go-to choice. It’s delicious, simple to prepare, and perfect for making ahead.

Ingredients for the Best Macaroni Salad for Cookouts

1 package (7.25 oz) KRAFT Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
½ cup KRAFT Real Mayo Mayonnaise
⅓ cup CLAUSSEN Sweet Pickle Relish
¼ cup finely chopped onion
8 slices OSCAR MAYER Bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 medium tomato, chopped

How to Make This Easy Picnic Macaroni Salad

Cook the Macaroni:
Prepare the KRAFT Macaroni & Cheese Dinner according to package instructions. Once cooked, transfer the cheesy pasta to a large bowl to cool slightly.
Mix Everything Together:
Add the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, chopped onion, crumbled bacon, and diced tomato. Stir gently to combine all the delicious flavors without breaking the pasta.
Chill Before Serving:
Cover and refrigerate the salad for several hours, or until well chilled. Gently stir before serving to keep the cold pasta salad for picnics creamy and fresh.

Tips for the Perfect Make-Ahead Pasta Salad

Lighten It Up: Swap the mayonnaise with MIRACLE WHIP Dressing to save about 50 calories and 7 grams of fat per serving.
Add Crunch: Top your macaroni salad with crunchy croutons or serve over shredded lettuce for an extra pop of texture.
Save Time: Use OSCAR MAYER Fully Cooked Bacon for a quick and easy shortcut without sacrificing any flavor.

Why This Bacon Macaroni Salad Is a Summer Favorite

This isn’t your ordinary pasta salad! This bacon macaroni salad offers the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it one of the best summer side dishes around. Plus, it’s a make-ahead pasta salad, so you can prepare it the night before and simply grab it when it’s time to go!

Whether you’re looking for a cold pasta salad for picnics or a side dish for your next BBQ, this Picnic Perfect Macaroni Salad will be a crowd-pleaser every time.