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Close-up of creamy elbow macaroni salad with vibrant red peppers and green onions in a white ceramic bowl. (Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad)

Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad: The Ultimate Southern Potluck Classic

A creamy, Southern-style Dolly Parton Macaroni Salad featuring a glossy mayo-sour cream dressing, crunchy red bell peppers, and celery. Perfect for potlucks, this vibrant side dish is finished with smoky paprika and fresh green onions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni 225g
  • 1 cup mayonnaise 240ml, full-fat preferred
  • 1/2 cup sour cream 120ml
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper 75g, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup celery 60g, chopped
  • 3 tbsp dill relish 45g
  • 2 tbsp green onions 10g, sliced
  • 1 tsp paprika 2g, ground

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling macaroni
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For the dressing
  • 1 Rustic White Ceramic Bowl For serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and remove starch.
  2. Whisk mayonnaise and sour cream in a large bowl until a thick, glossy white dressing forms.
  3. Fold in diced red bell peppers, celery, and dill relish. Add the cooled macaroni and toss until thoroughly coated.
  4. Transfer to a rustic white bowl and garnish with a generous dusting of paprika and sliced green onions.

Notes

Rinse the pasta thoroughly to keep the dressing glossy.
Let the salad chill for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld.