Classic potato salad is one of those timeless, crowd-pleasing dishes that brings comfort, nostalgia, and delicious flavor to every table. Whether you’re heading to a cookout, preparing for a family picnic, or simply craving a creamy, tangy side dish, this recipe delivers that beloved traditional taste readers search for year after year. Made with tender potatoes, crisp celery, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing, this classic version is simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. If you’re looking for a dependable potato salad recipe that tastes just like the one you grew up with—this is it!
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 8
Yield: About 8 cups
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon gold or red potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 to 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (to taste)
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup dill pickle relish
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon paprika, chopped fresh dill, or green onions for garnish
Directions
- Boil the Potatoes
Place diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 10–12 minutes. Potatoes should be fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let cool slightly. - Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and relish until smooth and creamy. - Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the dressing. Add chopped eggs, celery, and red onion. Stir slowly to prevent breaking the potatoes too much. - Chill for Best Flavor
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and gives the potato salad its signature taste and texture. - Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle lightly with paprika or add fresh dill or green onions for added freshness and color.
Tips for Success
- Start with cold water when boiling potatoes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use waxy potatoes (red or Yukon gold) to prevent them from turning mushy.
- Season as you go. Potatoes love salt—taste and adjust before chilling.
- For extra tang, add a spoonful of pickle juice or more vinegar.
- Avoid overmixing; it can make the salad too soft.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 285
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 6g
Conclusion
Classic potato salad remains a beloved staple because it’s simple, creamy, flavorful, and endlessly comforting. This recipe brings you all the familiar ingredients and nostalgic flavors that make it the go-to side dish for holidays, BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings. Once you chill it and take that first bite, you’ll understand why this timeless recipe remains a favorite throughout generations. Enjoy making it your own and serving it to the people you love!
