There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of Southern Potato Salad. Maybe it’s the way the tender potatoes soak up that creamy dressing, or the familiar tang of mustard and crunch of celery that makes it feel like every summer gathering and Sunday supper rolled into one dish. Growing up, this salad made an appearance at nearly every family reunion, nestled beside platters of fried chicken, buttery cornbread, and sweet tea. It wasn’t just a side dish; it was part of the memory.

This Southern staple tells a story of hospitality, shared moments, and timeless flavor. Grandmothers would proudly pass down their version, each with a special twist—maybe a little more paprika, or a generous helping of chopped eggs. It’s more than food. It’s a heritage.

Whether you’re hosting a cookout, prepping for a picnic, or just need that familiar taste of something made with love, this Southern Potato Salad hits the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Classic Southern flavor with a perfect balance of creamy and tangy.
• Family-friendly and made for sharing.
• Make-ahead friendly – even better the next day.
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon celery seed
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, plus more for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup finely chopped celery
• ½ cup finely chopped dill pickles or relish
• ½ cup finely chopped red onion
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• ½ cup chopped turkey ham (optional)

HOW TO MAKE SOUTHERN POTATO SALAD:

Making Southern Potato Salad is like recreating a piece of your childhood kitchen—it’s simple, but every step holds a memory.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Boil the Potatoes
   Start by scrubbing your Yukon gold potatoes and cutting them into large, even chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Simmer until they are fork-tender, about 10–15 minutes. Be careful not to overcook—you want them soft but not falling apart. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing
   In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, celery seed, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is where the Southern magic begins.

1. Mix the Salad
   Add the chopped celery, dill pickles, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs into the dressing. Stir gently to combine. Then, fold in the warm potatoes. They’ll soak in all that delicious dressing and become incredibly flavorful.
2. Chill Before Serving
   Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld beautifully.
3. Garnish and Serve
   Before serving, sprinkle with a touch more smoked paprika and chopped parsley if desired. This salad is best served chilled and alongside your favorite grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Don’t skip the chill time—it makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Use Yukon golds for their creamy texture and buttery taste.
• For extra tang, add a dash more vinegar or a spoonful of pickle juice.
• Peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother bite, but leaving the skins on adds a rustic touch and more nutrients.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chill time)
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boil & Mix
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

NOTES:

• Adjust the mustard or mayo amounts to suit your taste.
• Add chopped beef sausage or turkey ham for a hearty twist.
• This potato salad is naturally gluten-free, perfect for potlucks with dietary needs.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Estimates per serving
Calories: 320
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 480mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make Southern Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, red potatoes also work well. Just avoid starchy potatoes like Russets that may fall apart.

How do I keep it from getting watery?
Make sure the potatoes are fully drained and slightly cooled before mixing in the dressing.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Not suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise-based dressing.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Curried Sweet Potato Bisque
• Southern-Style Salmon Croquettes
• Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
• Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

CONCLUSION:

Southern Potato Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re carrying it to a church potluck or spooning it next to your barbecue ribs, it brings people together in the most delicious way. With its creamy texture, bright tang, and satisfying bite, it’s no wonder this classic has stood the test of time. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too.

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