Why Make This Recipe
Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad is a fun and tasty twist on traditional macaroni salad. It combines creamy ingredients with spicy jalapeños and crispy bacon, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a simple family meal. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is sure to satisfy both kids and adults. If you love rich flavors and a little kick, this dish is a must-try!
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2–3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Optional: extra bacon and jalapeño slices for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl. Next, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, and green onions.
- Mix everything until well coated with the sauce.
- Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
- If desired, garnish with extra bacon crumbles and jalapeño slices before serving.
How to Serve Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad
Serve this salad cold as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs well with grilled meats and can also be enjoyed on its own. For a creative twist, you can even serve it in a lettuce cup for a fun appetizer.
How to Store Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad
To store this macaroni salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–5 days. If you have any leftovers, just give it a good stir before serving again as some separation may occur after sitting in the fridge.
Tips to Make Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad
- Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference. If you prefer less heat, remove all the seeds.
- For added crunch, consider adding some diced bell peppers or celery.
- Let the salad chill longer for even better flavor; preparing it the night before can work wonders.
Variation
You can switch up the cheese by using pepper jack for an extra kick. Additionally, substituting turkey bacon for the regular bacon can lighten it up while keeping great flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
2. Can I replace the cream cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy flavor.
3. How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and add more vegetables or use a plant-based bacon alternative to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
