Mom’s Macaroni Shrimp Salad Recipe

Introduction

Mom’s Macaroni Shrimp Salad is a timeless family favorite that embodies the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors. This dish has been cherished in households for generations, embodying the essence of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that shines at potlucks, summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, and casual gatherings. The combination of tender macaroni, succulent shrimp, crunchy green onions, sharp cheddar, and sweet pickle relish, all enveloped in a flavorful dressing of mustard, mayonnaise, and seasoning salt, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This recipe, featured on Love With Recipes, emphasizes simplicity, speed, and flavor—ideal for busy cooks who want to serve something impressive without extensive preparation. The inclusion of cooked shrimp adds a layer of richness and protein, transforming a simple salad into a satisfying meal or a hearty side dish.

Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

The overall process involves quick assembly, but the true depth of flavor emerges after chilling, allowing the ingredients to meld seamlessly. It’s important to plan for at least an hour of refrigeration to maximize taste, making this recipe perfect for advance preparation.

Needed Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer for draining macaroni
• Large mixing bowls (preferably glass or stainless steel)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for chopping green onions and shrimp
• Cutting board
• Spatula or large mixing spoon for combining ingredients
• Refrigerator for chilling
• Small bowl for preparing the dressing
• Optional: citrus zester or grater if adding additional flavor elements

Tags

• Summer
• Potluck
• Weeknight Dinner
• Seafood
• Salad
• Family Favorite
• Quick & Easy

Serving Size

Serves 6 generous portions, making approximately 4 cups of salad. Perfect for family dinners, small gatherings, or picnics. Adjust ingredient quantities proportionally if serving larger groups or fewer people.

Difficulty Level

Easy. This recipe is straightforward and suitable for cooks of all skill levels. It involves basic cooking techniques such as boiling pasta, chopping ingredients, and mixing dressings.

Allergen Information

• Contains shellfish (shrimp)
• Contains dairy (mayonnaise and cheddar cheese)
• Contains eggs (mayonnaise, depending on brand)
• Contains mustard (mustard in dressing)

For allergen-sensitive individuals, substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu, and dairy with dairy-free mayonnaise or cheese alternatives.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta options
• Keto/Low-Carb: Replace macaroni with spiralized vegetables such as zucchini or shirataki noodles
• Pescatarian: Suitable as is, with seafood
• Vegetarian: Omit shrimp, replace with cooked chickpeas or tofu for protein

Course

Main Course / Side Dish

Cuisine

American / Family Classics

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Use approximately 4-6 quarts of water for optimal pasta cooking and to prevent sticking. Once boiling, add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente—tender but still with a slight firmness to the bite. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping.

While the pasta is cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice. Once the macaroni reaches the desired tenderness, drain it thoroughly using a colander or strainer, then immediately transfer it to the ice bath. This halts the cooking process and cools the pasta rapidly, preserving its texture and preventing sticking. After a few minutes, drain the macaroni again and set aside to dry slightly—this helps prevent excess water from diluting the dressing later on.

Step 2: Making the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of prepared mustard, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt. Use a whisk or small spatula to blend these ingredients thoroughly until smooth. The mustard adds a tangy kick that elevates the salad, while the mayonnaise provides creaminess. Seasoning salt enhances overall flavor, but taste and adjust as needed—some prefer a touch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.

For a more complex flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of pickle juice from the relish jar, which can bring brightness and enhance the overall flavor profile. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated and set aside until the pasta is ready.

Step 3: Combining Pasta and Dressing

Transfer the cooled, drained macaroni into a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and gently fold with a spatula or large spoon until every piece is coated evenly. This step is crucial for ensuring the salad is flavorful throughout. To achieve the best flavor absorption, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least one hour, or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to infuse the pasta thoroughly.

Step 4: Adding the Final Ingredients

After the pasta has chilled and flavors have melded, add the remaining ingredients: chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sweet pickle relish, and cooked chopped shrimp. Gently fold these ingredients into the dressed pasta, ensuring even distribution without breaking the pasta or crushing the delicate shrimp. The green onions add a fresh, pungent note, while the cheddar cheese provides richness and a slight sharpness. The pickle relish introduces a sweet and tangy contrast, balancing the dish.

If preparing the salad ahead of time, you can store the combined ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before serving to redistribute flavors.

Preparation Tips

• Cook pasta al dente: Avoid overcooking, as soft pasta will become mushy after refrigeration. Al dente pasta maintains its structure and texture.
• Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least an hour, preferably longer, to allow flavors to develop fully.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green onions and quality shrimp make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste the dressing before combining; add more seasoning salt or mustard if desired.
• Consider adding herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can be added for extra freshness.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use cooked, peeled shrimp: Fresh or frozen cooked shrimp works equally well. For convenience, buy pre-cooked shrimp and chop into small pieces.
• Enhance flavor with herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add brightness and depth.
• Make ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Prepare in advance and store in the fridge.
• Customize protein: For a different twist, substitute shrimp with cooked chicken, crab meat, or plant-based proteins for dietary preferences.
• Balance sweetness: Adjust pickle relish to taste; more relish adds sweetness, less keeps it tangy.

Add-ons

• Chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and creaminess
• Crumbled bacon for smoky flavor
• Additional chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for crunch
• A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat
• Fresh lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavor

Side Dishes

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh fruit salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Coleslaw
• Chips and salsa for a casual snack

Improvements

• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• Add a splash of hot sauce or sriracha to the dressing for spicy kick
• Incorporate diced celery for extra crunch and freshness
• Use smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky or spicy twist
• Serve with a side of lemon wedges for added zest at serving

Save and Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Due to the shrimp, it’s best to consume within this timeframe to ensure freshness and safety. For longer storage, consider removing the shrimp before storing and adding fresh shrimp when serving again.

To reheat, it’s generally recommended to serve cold, but if necessary, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving. Do not freeze, as the texture of the pasta and shrimp will degrade.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, ensure shrimp are fully cooked and thawed before chopping and adding to the salad. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely. Substitute shrimp with cooked tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh. Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based cheese if desired. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended due to the pasta and shrimp texture degradation upon freezing. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, diced celery, bell peppers, or cucumbers add crunch and flavor. Add before mixing the final ingredients.

What variations can I try?

Try adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, or a splash of hot sauce for different flavor profiles. Experiment to suit your preferences.

Conclusion

Mom’s Macaroni Shrimp Salad stands out as a quintessential summer dish that combines simplicity with a burst of flavors. Its ease of preparation, combined with the ability to customize and enhance, makes it a go-to recipe for many occasions. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite. The balance of creamy dressing, savory shrimp, and crunchy vegetables creates a harmonious experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. As featured on Love With Recipes, this dish exemplifies home-cooked comfort at its best—quick to prepare, delightful to eat, and endlessly adaptable. Make it your own by exploring add-ons and variations, and enjoy this family favorite in your own home.

References

• Food Network: Classic Shrimp Salad Recipes
• Allrecipes: Best Macaroni Salads