Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 pounds elbow macaroni noodles
- 1 pound deli ham, cubed
- 1 pound cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 pound shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes (for macaroni)
Cooking Difficulty Level:
2 (simple)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine macaroni, ham, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, celery, onion, and green bell pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over macaroni mixture and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy, tangy, and savory
- Colorful and appealing to all ages
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues
- Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated
User Comments:
- "This macaroni salad is absolutely delicious! It has the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess."
- "I love how easy this salad is to make. It's a great go-to for any occasion."
- "This is the best macaroni salad I've ever tasted! The combination of the ham, cheese, and vegetables is unbeatable."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If desired, you can substitute cooked chicken or turkey for the ham.
- To make a healthier version, use low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream.
- If you don't have time to refrigerate the salad for an hour, you can serve it immediately, but it will be less flavorful.