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Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad

A creamy, cheesy, bacon-packed Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Salad with just the right kick of heat and tangy zing. Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or a make-ahead family meal.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
  • ¼ cup pickled jalapeños chopped
  • 2 fresh jalapeños diced, seeds removed for less heat
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (usually 7–9 minutes) until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 4 oz softened cream cheese, and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth and creamy—no lumps. If the cream cheese resists blending, a hand mixer helps.
  • Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup crumbled bacon, 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeños, and 2 diced fresh jalapeños. Add 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  • Add the cooled macaroni to the creamy mixture. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until the pasta is well coated and the mix-ins are evenly distributed.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.