If you’re searching for the best potato salad recipe, you’ve just found it. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, a picnic, a potluck, or a casual weeknight dinner, this creamy potato salad will quickly become your go-to side dish. Made with tender potatoes, crisp vegetables, creamy mayo, tangy mustard, and the perfect seasoning blend, it delivers that nostalgic, classic flavor everyone craves.
In this article, you’ll discover why this version stands out, how to make it step-by-step, tips for perfect results every time, and common mistakes to avoid. Let’s dig in!
Why This Is the Best Potato Salad Recipe
Everyone claims their grandma’s version is the best—and fair enough! But this potato salad takes all the best traditional elements and upgrades them with perfect technique and balanced flavor. Here’s why people love it:
- Creamy texture without being mushy
- Tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness
- Crunch from celery, onions, and pickles
- Made with pantry staples
- Customizable to your taste
Whether you love it with eggs or without, warm or cold, this recipe hits all the marks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best potato salad, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll use:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds of Yukon Gold or red potatoes (waxy varieties hold their shape best)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for boiling)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced dill pickles or sweet pickles
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or green onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Crumbled bacon
- Chopped chives
- Paprika for garnish
- Dijon mustard for extra tang
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Potatoes
- Wash and scrub the potatoes, leaving the skins on if you like texture.
- Cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1–1.5 inches).
- Place them in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until fork-tender (10–15 minutes).
- Drain and let cool slightly before peeling if desired.
2. Boil the Eggs
- Place eggs in a small pot, cover with water, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, cook for 9–10 minutes.
- Transfer to an ice bath and let cool, then peel and chop.
3. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Apple cider vinegar
- Sugar (if using)
- Celery seed
- Salt and pepper
Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the slightly cooled potatoes to the dressing.
- Gently stir to coat without breaking up the potatoes too much.
- Add the eggs, celery, pickles, and onion.
- Mix gently again. You want everything coated but not mashed.
5. Chill and Serve
- For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley or chives for color and freshness.
Pro Tips for Perfect Potato Salad
- Start with cold water when boiling potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes. You want them tender but still firm enough to hold their shape.
- Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes—they have a creamy texture and don’t get grainy like russets.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before mixing with the mayo to prevent the dressing from becoming oily.
- Chop everything uniformly for a pleasing texture in every bite.
- Let it sit in the fridge—this salad gets better as it chills and the flavors meld.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the best potato salad recipe, it’s easy to customize it:
1. Southern-Style Potato Salad
Add more mustard, a touch of sweet relish, and even a splash of pickle juice. Some versions include chopped pimentos or olives for extra zing.
2. German Potato Salad
Swap out the mayo for a warm bacon-vinegar dressing. This is typically served warm and doesn’t include eggs.
3. Greek-Inspired Potato Salad
Use olive oil, lemon juice, red onion, capers, and fresh dill. Feta cheese is a great optional topping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best cooks can make missteps. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overmixing can turn your salad into mashed potatoes.
- Using too much mayo makes it heavy and greasy.
- Skipping the salt in the boiling water leaves the potatoes bland.
- Not chilling long enough prevents flavors from developing fully.
- Adding hot potatoes directly to the mayo can cause separation.
What to Serve With Potato Salad
This creamy classic pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled burgers or hot dogs
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Fried chicken
- Sandwiches and wraps
- Fresh green salad
- Deviled eggs or baked beans
It’s especially popular at 4th of July cookouts, Memorial Day, and summer picnics!
How to Store Potato Salad
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Do not leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
- Freezing is not recommended—mayonnaise-based dressings don’t hold up well when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make potato salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made a day in advance. The flavors deepen as it chills.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your condiments to be safe.
Can I make it without mayo?
Absolutely. Substitute Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a vinaigrette-style dressing.
What potatoes are best for potato salad?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold and red potatoes are best—they hold their shape and have a creamy bite.
Final Thoughts
The best potato salad recipe doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs the right ingredients, the right balance, and a bit of love. Whether you’re making it for a backyard BBQ or meal prepping for the week, this classic side dish will impress your friends and satisfy every craving.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if people start asking you to bring it to every gathering. It’s that good.