Are you planning a backyard barbecue or looking for an amazing Southern side dish? Learn How to Make this Classic Southern Potato Salad Recipe that will tick all the boxes. It's is affordable, easy to make, and can be adapted to fit a healthier lifestyle.
We love pairing this with our Low and Slow Baked Ribs or Spicy Cajun Fried Chicken, along with our highly requested Green Beans with Bacon for a complete Southern spread!
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Southern Potato Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a staple for family gatherings in the South. Known for its creamy texture and comforting mix of flavors, this recipe combines tender potatoes, crisp celery, and a creamy dressing.
If you love this Southern side dish, you might also enjoy this Cucumber and Onion Salad or our Classic Southern Egg Salad.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Health-Friendly: Uses ingredients that are good for you.
- Budget-Friendly: Economical choices that don’t sacrifice flavor.
- Quick to Prepare: Ideal for busy parents.
- Versatile: Perfect for any family gathering or picnic and pairs perfectly with these Baked Beans with Ground Beef.
Southern Potato Salad Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: These are large, starchy potatoes that are great for boiling and making salads because they hold their shape well.
- Hard-boiled eggs: Chopped up, they add a nice, rich texture and boost the protein in the salad.
- Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Pickle relish: This brings in a sweet and tangy flavor that brightens up the salad.
- Pickle juice: It adds extra tanginess and helps to flavor the dressing.
- Yellow mustard: This gives a sharp, tangy kick that complements the creamy elements.
- Mayonnaise: It's the creamy base of our dressing, making the salad smooth and rich.
- Apple cider vinegar: A splash of this makes the salad a little zesty and balances out the sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper: These are essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors in the salad.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
- Pickle relish: Chopped dill pickles can be used for a less sweet flavor.
- Yellow mustard: Dijon mustard works as a spicier substitute.
- Flavor: Add red onions or chives for an extra bite.
- Spice: Include a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat.
How to Make Classic Southern Potato Salad
STEP 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Boil peeled and diced russet potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
STEP 2: Mix the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, pickle juice, salt, and pepper.
STEP 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooled potatoes with chopped eggs, celery, and pickle relish. Add the dressing and mix gently.
STEP 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to blend the flavors. Serve chilled.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and more meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Make sure potatoes are cooked until just tender to avoid a mushy salad.
✔️ DO Let the potato salad chill thoroughly before serving.
Storage
Store Southern potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, do not freeze as it may affect the texture.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, it's best made a day ahead to let the flavors blend. Be sure to store it in the refrigerator.
Southern potato salad typically includes eggs, relish, and a mayonnaise-mustard dressing, giving it a unique taste and texture. The result? A creamy, slightly tangy salad with just the right flavor. It's perfect at any BBQ, potluck, or family gathering.
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh and delicious for three to four days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the dressing.
The key is not overcooking your potatoes; you want them tender, not mushy. Once they’ve cooled, add your dressing so it clings instead of diluting.
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📖 Recipe
How to Make a Classic Southern Potato Salad
Equipment
- Pasta pot for boiling potatoes
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 5 hard-boiled eggs chopped
- ½ cup celery finely chopped
- ¼ cup pickle relish sweet or dill
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- green onion, chives, or cooked bacon chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Place diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, pickle juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the slightly cooled potatoes, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and pickle relish. Pour the dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend. Before serving, garnish with chopped chives, green onion, or bacon if using.
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Notes
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
- Pickle relish: Chopped dill pickles can be used if you're out of relish.
- Yellow mustard: Dijon mustard works as a spicier substitute.
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