Macaroni and Cheese Salad

Macaroni and Cheese Salad is a creamy, chilled pasta salad that combines cooked elbow macaroni with a rich cheese-based dressing, often mayonnaise or a cheese sauce, and typically includes mix-ins like diced vegetables, herbs, or proteins. It's a popular side dish in American cuisine, especially at picnics and potlucks, blending the comfort of mac and cheese with the freshness of a salad.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the pasta and fat from the cheese and mayonnaise, with moderate protein if ingredients like eggs or chicken are added. It provides key nutrients like calcium and phosphorus from cheese, and a typical serving (about 1 cup) ranges from 300 to 500 calories, depending on the recipe.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	35 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	650 mg
Calcium	200 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Potassium	250 mg
Vitamin A	150 mcg
Vitamin C	5 mg
Vitamin D	1.0 mcg
Vitamin B12	0.6 mcg
Phosphorus	180 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it's a creative twist on classic mac and cheese, transforming a hot comfort food into a versatile, make-ahead salad that's a staple at American gatherings. Nutritionally, it can be customized to include veggies for added fiber and vitamins, making it a balanced yet indulgent option.