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Classic Potato Salad

A creamy, tangy, and flavorful classic potato salad that’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings. This easy make-ahead dish is always a crowd favorite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Spatula or spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 3 large eggs hard-boiled and chopped
  • ½ cup celery finely diced
  • ½ cup red onion finely diced
  • ½ cup dill pickles chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped

For the Dressing

  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sweet relish
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Potatoes

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cubed potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
  • Tip: For better texture, boil potatoes with a splash of vinegar to help them hold their shape.

Prepare the Dressing

  • In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  • Tip: For extra tanginess, add an extra teaspoon of mustard or a splash of lemon juice.

Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine cooled potatoes, chopped eggs, celery, red onion, pickles, and parsley. Pour the dressing over and gently fold everything together.
  • Tip: Be gentle when mixing to maintain the potatoes’ texture.

Chill and Serve

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Before serving, sprinkle with paprika.
  • Tip: Chilling enhances the flavor, so make it ahead if possible!

Notes

For a Southern twist, use yellow mustard and add pimentos.
For a lighter version, replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
Best when made a day in advance for deeper flavor!
Keyword classic potato salad, creamy potato salad, homemade potato salad, picnic potato salad, summer BBQ side dish