Name: Classic Creamy Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet); 4 large eggs; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/4 cup finely chopped celery; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made potato salad. It’s a dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re grilling burgers in the backyard or simply craving something comforting, this Classic Creamy Potato Salad will quickly become your go-to recipe. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile

This potato salad is perfect for nearly any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy dinner gatherings. You can serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it as a refreshing standalone dish.

Budget-Friendly

Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank. The simple yet satisfying components make it easy to prepare without a hefty price tag.

Quick and Easy

With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a creamy potato salad ready in no time. No complex techniques here—just straightforward, delicious cooking.

Customizable

Want to add a little extra zing? Toss in some chopped pickles, fresh herbs, or even a hint of mustard. This recipe is your blank canvas—feel free to make it your own!

Crowd-Pleasing

A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this creamy potato salad—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Potatoes

The base of this dish. Choose waxy potatoes that hold their shape well after boiling for that perfect creamy texture.

Mayonnaise

The secret to that creamy, velvety texture. It’s what gives the salad that rich mouthfeel we all love.

Mustard

A little tang to balance out the creaminess. It adds depth and a subtle bite that takes the flavor to the next level.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

For that classic touch. Chopped hard-boiled eggs add richness and make this salad extra hearty.

Celery

Crunchy, fresh, and just the right amount of bite. Celery brings a lovely contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Red Onion

A hint of sharpness that cuts through the richness of the mayo and mustard. It adds color and a bit of bite to the dish.

Salt and Pepper

The seasoning duo that makes everything come together. Taste and adjust to get that perfect balance of flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by boiling your potatoes. This ensures they cook evenly and get nice and tender, just the way we want them. Don’t forget to salt the water—it makes a huge difference in flavor.

Combine Ingredients

Once your potatoes are cooked and cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and red onion. Then, add the mayonnaise and mustard. Mix gently until everything is coated in that creamy goodness. Be careful not to overmix—this isn’t mashed potatoes!

Add Seasoning

Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as needed, making sure every bite is perfectly balanced.

Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let your potato salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This gives all those flavors a chance to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with a little extra chopped celery or fresh herbs for that perfect finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6 Calories per serving: 300

(Note: These are approximate values and may vary based on specific ingredient choices.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

(Note: These times may vary depending on your equipment.)

How to Serve Classic Creamy Potato Salad

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve alongside grilled chicken or burgers for a classic summer cookout meal.
Pair it with a fresh green salad for a lighter, balanced meal.
Add a side of baked beans or cornbread for a hearty and comforting spread.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Use waxy potatoes: They hold their shape better than starchy ones, so your potato salad won’t get mushy.
Let it chill: The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld together.
Customize: Add extra ingredients like pickles, bacon, or fresh herbs to personalize the salad to your taste.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt will give the salad a tangier flavor and a lighter texture.

3. Can I make this potato salad without eggs?
Yes, you can skip the eggs if you prefer, though they do add richness to the salad.

4. How do I store leftover potato salad?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

5. Can I add mustard to make it more tangy?
Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of mustard to suit your taste!

6. Can I use any type of potatoes?
Waxy potatoes are ideal for this recipe, but you can use other types if you don’t mind a slightly different texture.

7. Can I add herbs like parsley or dill?
Yes, fresh herbs will elevate the flavor of the salad and add a beautiful pop of color!

8. What should I do if the salad is too dry?
If you find the salad is too dry, simply add a little extra mayonnaise or some olive oil to loosen it up.

9. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
No, but you can make it vegan by using vegan mayo and omitting the eggs.

10. Can I use red potatoes instead of Yukon gold?
Yes, red potatoes are a great substitute and will add a slightly different texture, but they work well in this salad.

Conclusion

Classic Creamy Potato Salad is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving comfort food, this recipe will always have your back. With just a few simple ingredients and a little love, you’ll be enjoying a dish that’s sure to bring smiles to the table. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to dig into a bowl of pure, creamy deliciousness!

Classic Creamy Potato Salad

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Author: Grace Sullivan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling, Mixing, Chilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy, and delicious side dish perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. Made with tender potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich mayonnaise dressing, it’s a comfort food favorite.

Instructions

Cook the potatoes and eggs: Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and carefully add the eggs. Boil for 9-10 minutes, then cool under cold running water. Peel and chop the eggs into small pieces.
Make the dressing: In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Assemble the salad: Add the cooled potatoes, chopped eggs, red onion, and celery to the dressing. Gently stir to combine, making sure everything is coated in the dressing.
Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

This potato salad can be made a day in advance, making it a great make-ahead dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking, and add other ingredients like pickles or relish for extra flavor.