Introduction
There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about a bowl of Mom’s Creamy Potato Salad. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table — whether it’s for a summer barbecue, a family reunion, or a quiet weekend lunch at home.
This recipe carries with it the flavors of home and the nostalgia of shared meals. With tender, flavorful potatoes, crunchy veggies, and a rich, tangy dressing, it’s a side dish that’s both simple and unforgettable. Each bite feels like a hug — creamy, cool, and perfectly seasoned.
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🥔 Overview of the Recipe
Why You’ll Love It
- Classic and creamy: Just like Mom made it, with a rich mayo dressing.
- Customizable: Easy to adjust for tangier, sweeter, or lighter preferences.
- Perfect for gatherings: Serves a crowd and travels well for potlucks or picnics.
- Make-ahead magic: Tastes even better after chilling overnight!
🌿 Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 pounds (about 1 kg) waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
- 3 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup dill pickles or sweet relish (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for that classic creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed (optional but adds a subtle earthy flavor)
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice (optional, for tangy brightness)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Scrub and chop the potatoes into bite-sized cubes (peel them if you prefer a smoother texture).
Place them in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil.
Simmer for 10–12 minutes, until just tender. Avoid overcooking—soft potatoes will break apart when mixed.
Drain and let them cool slightly. For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of vinegar over the warm potatoes to soak in that tangy note.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Adjust the seasoning to your liking — add a splash of pickle juice for extra zest!
Step 3: Combine Everything
Once the potatoes are warm but not hot, add them to the dressing bowl. Gently toss to coat.
Add chopped celery, onion, and relish (if using). Chop the hard-boiled eggs and fold them in carefully so they don’t crumble completely.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.
🍽️ What to Serve With Creamy Potato Salad
This classic side pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue chicken
- Roasted corn on the cob
- Baked beans or coleslaw for a full picnic spread
- Sandwiches and wraps for easy weekday meals
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Potato Salad
- Choose waxy potatoes (like red or Yukon Gold) — they hold their shape better than starchy ones.
- Add dressing while potatoes are warm so they absorb flavor.
- Let it rest in the fridge for a few hours — it’s even better the next day!
- Adjust to your taste: For a tangier version, add more vinegar or mustard; for sweeter, use sweet relish.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
🧊 Storage Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Avoid freezing — the texture of the potatoes and dressing doesn’t hold well after thawing.
If you’re preparing ahead for a cookout, keep it chilled until serving time. Always avoid leaving potato salad at room temperature for more than two hours.
ℹ️ General Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6–8
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! Simply skip the eggs or replace them with extra celery or chopped pickles for texture.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely — it actually tastes better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together beautifully.
What’s the best potato for creamy salad?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, red, or fingerlings hold their shape and texture the best.
How can I make it more tangy or bold?
Add extra Dijon mustard or a splash of pickle juice to the dressing.
❤️ Conclusion
Mom’s Creamy Potato Salad is more than a side dish — it’s a reminder of home, laughter, and love around the table. Its comforting flavor never goes out of style, and each spoonful tastes like nostalgia served cold.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cookout, a family dinner, or a simple weekday treat, this creamy classic always wins hearts.
🥗 You May Also Enjoy
- Oven-Fried Potatoes & Onions – Crispy, golden, and full of flavor.
- Zucchini Cornbread Casserole – A hearty twist on a beloved favorite.
- Southern-Style Cheeseburger Pie – Savory comfort baked to perfection.
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📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving):
Calories: 290 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 25g | Protein: 6g
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