Let me tell you, there’s something about a big scoop of creamy Hawaiian mac salad that takes me straight back to my first trip to Oahu.

The sun was blazing, the air smelled like grilled meat and sea breeze, and I had my first real Hawaiian plate lunch—complete with tender meat, fluffy rice, and the most comforting, tangy-creamy macaroni salad.

That side dish? It didn’t look like much, but one bite and I was hooked. That moment sparked my obsession with recreating that flavor at home.

After plenty of test batches and tweaks, I finally nailed down what I think is the perfect Mo Bettahs Macaroni Salad Recipe—creamy, slightly tangy, with that soft, rich texture that pairs so well with grilled meats or teriyaki chicken. If you’re after that classic taste from the islands, this one’s for you.

Easy Mo Bettahs Macaroni Salad Recipe To Try

The Mo Bettahs Macaroni Salad Recipe is a creamy, tangy, and simple Hawaiian side dish that brings authentic island flavor right into your kitchen. It’s the ideal side dish for any Hawaiian plate lunch or summer BBQ.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Cuisine: Hawaiian
Course: Side Dish
Difficulty: Easy

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: ~320 per serving

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this Mo Bettahs-style mac salad:

2 cups elbow macaroni
1/2 cup grated carrot
1 1/4 cups Hellman’s Mayonnaise (or any real mayo)

1 tbsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp paprika
1/8 tsp turmeric
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a tiny kick)

Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Notes:

Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for texture and bite.
Mayonnaise: Hellman’s gives the salad that thick, creamy base. Don’t sub with low-fat or miracle types—they won’t taste the same.

Carrot: It adds subtle crunch and sweetness.
Spices: These bring the warm depth that sets this apart from plain mayo mac salad.

Instructions

Let’s get into it—this part’s easy and honestly kind of therapeutic.

Step 1: Boil The Pasta

Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water until very soft—about 1-2 minutes past al dente. You want it soft, not mushy, but softer than your usual pasta.
Tip: This is a key step. That soft texture is part of what makes Hawaiian mac salad so comforting.

Step 2: Rinse And Cool

Drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Let it drain fully. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add The Carrot

Add the grated carrot to the bowl and gently toss to combine. This gives the salad some crunch and color.

Step 4: Mix The Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and a big pinch each of salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the pasta and carrot. Mix gently until everything is coated and creamy. You want every piece of macaroni hugged by that sauce.

Step 6: Chill And Let It Marinate

Cover and chill the salad for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor). The pasta will soak up the dressing and mellow out the flavors.

Why Does Hawaiian Mac Salad Taste Different?

The secret’s in the texture and that tangy-creamy mayo blend. Hawaiian macaroni salad is softer, creamier, and a bit tangier than the traditional deli-style mac salad.

That’s intentional—Hawaiian mac salad is meant to sit proudly next to bold grilled meats, so its mellow richness balances the meal. Plus, the simple spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and just a hint of sugar give it that familiar comfort food taste without overpowering it.

How To Keep Macaroni Salad Creamy?

Here’s the trick:

Use enough mayonnaise—more than you think at first.
Don’t over-drain your pasta dry. A little moisture helps the dressing cling.
Let the flavors marinate in the fridge, and if it looks dry when serving, stir in a spoonful of mayo to freshen it up.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

This macaroni salad is the perfect side dish for grilled meats or any Hawaiian plate lunch. Here’s how I love to serve it:

With grilled chicken, or teriyaki beef
Alongside a scoop of white rice and a drizzle of shoyu sauce

With sweet iced tea or pineapple juice for a tropical touch
Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped green onions

Personal Touch & Tips For The Perfect Recipe

Let me tell you—don’t skip the chill time. That’s when the salad transforms. The macaroni softens more, the flavors meld, and you get that creamy, flavorful bite that reminds you of Hawaii. I like to make it a day ahead for the best results.

And if you’re bringing this to a summer cookout or potluck, double the batch—it disappears fast.

Bonus Tip: If you like it a little tangier, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or pickle juice. It’s not traditional, but it’s tasty.

FAQs

Can I Make Mo Bettahs Macaroni Salad Ahead Of Time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day. Just store it in an airtight container and give it a stir before serving.

What’s The Best Pasta For Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?

Elbow macaroni is the classic. It holds the dressing well and gives that familiar texture.

Can I Use Another Brand Of Mayonnaise?

Hellman’s is preferred for its creaminess, but any full-fat real mayo works. Avoid whipped or low-fat versions—they’re too thin.

Is Mo Bettahs Macaroni Salad spicy?

Not really. The pinch of cayenne is optional and adds warmth, not heat. You can skip it if you’re sensitive to spice.

How Long Will Leftover Mac Salad Last?

About 3–4 days in the fridge. Always keep it chilled, especially if you’re serving it at a picnic or cookout.

If you’ve been missing that creamy side scoop from your favorite Hawaiian plate lunch, this Mo Bettahs Macaroni Salad Recipe brings it right to your table. It’s simple, full of flavor, and just straight-up comforting.

Whether you’re making it for dinner, a BBQ, or just because—you’ll taste why this mac salad is such a staple across the islands.

Try it out, share it with your friends, and let me know how it turns out! If you’re looking for more Hawaiian dishes or salad recipes, check out some of my other favorites right here on Naznin’s Kitchen.

Let’s keep cooking simple and satisfying—one scoop at a time.

Author

Recent Posts

Follow me

Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.