This is the best potato salad I’ve ever had!
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Few dishes capture the heart of Southern comfort quite like potato salad. Creamy, tangy, and rich with flavor, it’s a staple at barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. With its perfect balance of tender potatoes, tangy pickles, creamy mayonnaise, and a hint of mustard, this timeless recipe has been passed down for generations—and for good reason.
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This version delivers everything you love about the classic: a silky dressing that clings to every potato, a touch of sweetness, a bit of crunch, and that nostalgic flavor that instantly recalls Sunday dinners and backyard cookouts.
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🥔 Classic Southern Potato Salad
🛒 Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | The star of the dish. Yukon Golds hold their shape and taste buttery; Russets give a fluffier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like reds if you want that creamy Southern consistency. Pro Tip: Boil just until tender—overcooking makes them mushy. |
| Hard-Boiled Eggs | Add richness and protein. Yolks blend into the dressing for creaminess, while whites add gentle bite. |
| Onion | Finely chopped yellow or sweet onion brings sharpness and aroma, balancing the creamy base. |
| Sweet Pickle Relish | The Southern secret ingredient—adds sweetness and tang. Substitute dill pickles for a sharper flavor. |
| Mayonnaise | The creamy foundation. Use a quality brand like Duke’s or Hellmann’s for authentic flavor. |
| Yellow Mustard | Provides tangy zest and that classic golden hue. |
| Salt & Pepper | Simple but essential—these seasonings bring everything to life. |
| Paprika | A garnish that adds color and subtle smokiness. |
| Celery (optional) | Adds crunch and freshness for texture contrast. |
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and dice 3 lbs of potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
- Place in a pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer 10–12 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and spread on a baking sheet to cool slightly.
Pro Tip: Always start potatoes in cold water for even cooking.
Step 2: Hard-Boil the Eggs
- Place 4 eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit 10–12 minutes.
- Cool in ice water, peel, and chop.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Taste and adjust. Optional: add a splash of apple cider vinegar or pinch of sugar for balance.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- In a large bowl, mix potatoes, eggs, onion, and celery.
- Gently fold in dressing until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with paprika. Garnish with egg slices or parsley. Serve chilled.
✨ Creamy, tangy, and nostalgic—this Southern Potato Salad is the kind of dish that never goes out of style.
