🥔 Creamy Potato Salad Recipe: The Ultimate Classic Side Dish
Looking for the perfect creamy potato salad recipe for your next BBQ, picnic, or family dinner? This easy, classic potato salad is loaded with flavor, has the creamiest texture, and is always a crowd-pleaser!
Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or need a reliable side dish, this recipe will give you that nostalgic, homemade taste everyone loves.
đź§ľ Ingredients
To make the best creamy potato salad, you’ll need:
-
2 lbs (about 1 kg) Yukon gold or red potatoes (peeled & cubed)
-
1 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half sour cream for tang)
-
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
-
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
-
½ teaspoon sugar (optional for slight sweetness)
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
-
2 stalks celery, finely diced
-
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
-
3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional)
-
Paprika, for garnish
👩‍🍳 Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a creamy and flavorful potato salad:
1. Boil the Potatoes
-
Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
-
Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
-
Cook for 10–12 minutes until fork-tender. Don’t overcook!
-
Drain and let cool completely.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing
-
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and celery seed.
-
Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine and Mix
-
Add cooled potatoes, celery, red onion, chopped eggs, and herbs into the bowl with dressing.
-
Gently toss to coat everything evenly. Don’t mash the potatoes.
4. Chill Before Serving
-
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (or overnight) for best flavor.
-
Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
đź’ˇ Tips for the Best Potato Salad
-
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for better texture—they hold their shape.
-
Cool the potatoes completely before mixing to avoid watery dressing.
-
Add pickles or relish for extra tang and crunch, if desired.
-
Make it ahead! It tastes better after chilling for a few hours.
📦 Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the potatoes and dressing may separate.
🥗 Why This Creamy Potato Salad Stands Out
-
Super easy to make.
-
No exotic ingredients—just pantry staples.
-
Balanced flavor: tangy, creamy, slightly sweet.
-
Perfect for meal prep or large gatherings.
🔍 Related Keywords (for SEO):
-
Best potato salad recipe
-
How to make creamy potato salad
-
Homemade potato salad
-
Easy side dish for BBQ
-
Southern-style potato salad
-
No-mayo potato salad alternative