Macaroni Ham Salad is a go-to side dish that’s easy to throw together with just a few ingredients from the fridge and pantry. It’s packed with flavor, color, and crunch, and it always hits the spot at any cookout or weeknight dinner.

Small bowl of macaroni salad with ham and broccoli, forks on a blue and white towel.

The creamy dressing is sweet and tangy and it’s the perfect combo with the salty ham and flavorful veggies for a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this is a hearty and delicious salad that everyone will love.

Bowl of macaroni salad with carrots, broccoli, ham.

Table of Contents

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Perfect for Leftover Ham – A great way to stretch leftovers into a fresh, new meal with pantry staples and crisp veggies.
Colorful and Crunchy – Packed with broccoli, bell peppers, carrots and red onion for the perfect texture in every bite.
Make Ahead Favorite – Tastes even better after it chills, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for Macaroni Ham Salad

macaroni
ham
cheddar cheese
broccoli
bell pepper
red onion
carrot
mayonnaise – not Miracle Whip
spicy brown mustard or dijon mustard
white vinegar
granulated sugar
kosher salt
black pepper

How to Make Macaroni Ham Salad

Cook macaroni in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Chopped vegetables, ham, shredded cheese in bowls.

Prep the ingredients by chopping the ham, cheese, and vegetables into bite-size pieces.

Creamy dressing mixed in a bowl with whisk.

Make the dressing by combining mayonnaise, spicy brown mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Macaroni with creamy dressing in a bowl.

Bowl with chopped vegetables, ham, cheese.

Add the cooked pasta and dressing to a large bowl and stir until well coated. Stir in the ham, vegetables and shredded cheese until well combined.
Cover and Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to come together. Stir before serving.

Bowl of macaroni salad with red bell peppers, carrots, ham, cheese and broccoli.

Recipe Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving leftovers.
Variations:
- Swap in frozen peas, corn or celery for broccoli if you prefer.
- Use dill pickles or sweet pickle relish for extra flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or hard-boiled eggs for even more flavor and protein.

More Pasta Salad Recipes You Will Love

Sweet Macaroni Salad recipe – A classic side dish with sweet dressing, crunchy veggies, and elbow pasta. It’s the must-have side for any BBQ or holiday dinner.
Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad – Made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil for a bright and refreshing summer salad that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad – Loaded with crispy bacon, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese, this is a hearty crowd-pleaser perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
Tortellini Pasta Salad – A quick and easy side dish or enjoy it for a light lunch. It’s loaded with fresh tomatoes, crispy bacon, cheese tortellini in a creamy pesto dressing.

Small bowl of macaroni salad with large bowl in background.

Macaroni Ham Salad is a must for your next barbecue, potluck, or weekly meal prep. It’s an easy, satisfying way to turn a few simple ingredients into something everyone will rave about. Go ahead and pin it for later or print it out—this is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Have you tried this Macaroni Ham Salad recipe? Leave a comment and star rating! I’d love to hear what you think.

Small bowl of macaroni salad with broccoli and ham.

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