I have never been much of a macaroni salad fan. The only one I really like is one that I make with tuna in it. But otherwise, not so much. I recently came across a recipe that intrigued me because I love, love, jalapeno poppers! Mm–m-m-mm-m. Sure nuff, this mac salad tastes like a jalapeno popper. It has the jalapeno of course…..and the cream cheese….so good. I bet it would be good with some crumbled bacon! I may try that next time.

Now, the recipe does call for some sour cream. I was out of it, but I had some green onion dip on hand. So, I used that! Perfect.

This would be a great potluck dish. I hope you will make it. Enjoy.

Jalapeno Popper Macaroni Salad

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
juice of half a lemon
2 good-sized fresh jalapeno, minced
1 fresh serrano pepper, minced
1 clove fresh garlic, grated
1 – 2 green onions, sliced
1/2 – 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
salt and pepper to taste
chopped parsley for garnish

Cook macaroni until just done. Don’t over cook. Drain well.

Dump macaroni into a large mixing bowl.
In another bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic and green onion. Add this mixture to the drained macaroni, along with the jalapeno, serrano and shredded cheese. Mix together gently. Cover and place it in the refrigerator to chill.

Since pasta tends to soak up sauces and dressings, you may have to add a bit more mayonnaise before serving.

Optional: Sprinkle with bacon pieces.