This creamy tuna macaroni salad is a timeless comfort food recipe that’s perfect for warm-weather lunches, backyard cookouts, picnics, or quick family dinners.
Tender macaroni is tossed with flaky tuna, crisp celery, juicy tomatoes, and a lightly sweetened creamy dressing that brings everything together in one refreshing bowl. It’s simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Whether served chilled alongside grilled burgers, sandwiches, or fresh muffins, this classic pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser.
The combination of cool pasta and creamy tuna dressing creates a nostalgic dish that’s both filling and easy to prepare ahead of time. Make it for potlucks, meal prep, or an easy weekday side dish everyone will enjoy.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Additional Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) package macaroni pasta
- 3 tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (12-ounce) can tuna, drained
- 1 1/2 cups light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Italian-style salad dressing
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, according to package directions.
- Drain the pasta and rinse thoroughly under cold water to cool it down quickly. Allow excess water to drain completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, diced tomatoes, chopped celery, and drained tuna.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Italian-style dressing, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the macaroni mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Chefs Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped red onion, sweet pickle relish, or shredded cheddar cheese.
- Use albacore tuna for a firmer texture and richer flavor.
- If making ahead, stir in a little extra mayonnaise before serving to refresh the salad.
- This salad tastes even better after chilling overnight.
- Serve with fresh muffins, crackers, or sliced cucumbers for a complete summer meal.