Introduction in Alex Guarnaschelli’s Style:

There’s something about Southern Potato Salad that just feels like home. It’s the dish that shows up at every barbecue, family gathering, and Sunday dinner—a bowl of creamy, tangy, perfectly seasoned comfort.

What makes this the best Southern Potato Salad? It’s all about the perfect balance—tender potatoes, a rich and creamy dressing, a hint of tang from mustard and pickles, and just the right crunch from celery and onions. And let’s not forget the hard-boiled eggs—because a true Southern-style potato salad just isn’t complete without them.

Whether you’re serving this up at a summer cookout or alongside a plate of crispy fried chicken, this potato salad will disappear fast. One bite, and you’ll see why this recipe has been passed down for generations.

Recipe Resume in Todd Wilbur’s Style:

This Southern Potato Salad brings all the classic flavors of the South to your table—creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with crunch. Tender potatoes, chopped eggs, pickles, and a mayo-mustard dressing come together for a flavor-packed side dish that belongs at every cookout and potluck.

The secret? A little pickle juice, a touch of sugar, and just the right amount of seasoning to make every bite bold and delicious. Make it ahead, let the flavors meld, and watch it become the star of the meal!

Exciting Story:

I still remember the first time I tried real Southern Potato Salad at a family reunion in Alabama. My aunt handed me a plate and said, “You have to try this—it’s a family tradition.” One bite in, and I got it—creamy, tangy, perfectly seasoned, with just the right amount of crunch.

Ever since, I’ve been perfecting my own version—one that stays true to the Southern classic, with all the right flavors and textures. Now, every time I bring it to a barbecue, I hear the same thing: “You HAVE to give me the recipe.”

Why You’ll Love This Southern Potato Salad

🥔✨ Creamy, Tangy & Perfectly Seasoned!

✔ Classic Southern-style with eggs, mustard & pickles.
✔ Creamy and rich, but never heavy.
✔ The perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory.
✔ Even better when made ahead—flavors meld beautifully!
✔ A must-have for BBQs, holidays, and family gatherings!

Cuisine: Southern / Classic Comfort Food

Ingredients – Classic & Flavorful

For the Potato Salad:

3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled & cubed
4 large eggs, hard-boiled & chopped
½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s is the Southern classic!)
¼ cup yellow mustard
¼ cup dill pickle relish (or sweet relish for a milder version)
1 tablespoon pickle juice (adds extra tang!)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
½ cup celery, finely chopped
¼ cup red onion, finely diced

For Garnish (Optional, but Highly Recommended!):

Paprika, for dusting
Sliced green onions or fresh parsley

How to Make Southern Potato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Boil the potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 teaspoon salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until fork-tender.
Drain and let the potatoes cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, pickle juice, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the cooked potatoes, chopped eggs, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing.
Gently mix until everything is well coated, being careful not to mash the potatoes too much.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
Garnish with paprika and sliced green onions or parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Southern Potato Salad

✔ Use Yukon Gold or Russets – They hold their shape but stay creamy.
✔ Don’t overcook the potatoes – You want them soft, but not mushy!
✔ Chill before serving – This deepens the flavor and makes it even better.
✔ Use Duke’s Mayo for true Southern flavor – It’s richer and tangier than most brands.
✔ Adjust the mustard & relish – Add more mustard for tang, or more relish for sweetness!

Substitutions and Variations

🔹 Want it extra creamy? – Add an extra ¼ cup mayo or a splash of sour cream.
🔹 Love it sweet? – Use sweet relish instead of dill and add 1 extra teaspoon of sugar.
🔹 Make it spicy! – Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for a kick.
🔹 No pickles? – Substitute chopped green olives for a tangy twist.
🔹 Egg-free version? – Just leave out the eggs and add extra celery for crunch!

Make a Healthier Version

✅ Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo – Cuts fat but keeps it creamy!
✅ Reduce the sugar – The relish already adds some natural sweetness.
✅ Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes – A unique twist with more fiber!
✅ Use light mayo – Keeps it lighter but still rich.

Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style:

And there you have it—the ultimate Southern Potato Salad! Creamy, tangy, and packed with classic flavors, this side dish is a must-have for barbecues, cookouts, and comfort food feasts.

Make it ahead, let the flavors meld together, and watch it disappear faster than the ribs at a summer cookout!

Relevant Categories:

Southern Side Dishes
Classic Comfort Food
BBQ & Picnic Favorites
Make-Ahead Recipes

Southern Potato Salad

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Author: Victoria

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Description

This Southern Potato Salad brings all the classic flavors of the South to your table—creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with crunch.