Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Peel and cube the potatoes into even pieces.
- Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 10–14 minutes, or until fork-tender (not mushy!).
- Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggs
- Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs.
- Set aside a few slices or pieces if you’d like to use them for garnish.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, pickle relish, white vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir until creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl, add the warm potatoes.
- Gently fold in the chopped eggs, celery, onion, and dressing.
- Stir carefully so the potatoes stay in soft chunks, not mashed.
- Sprinkle sliced spring onions over the top.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (longer tastes even better).
- Just before serving, lightly sprinkle paprika on top for that classic Southern finishing touch.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze — mayonnaise breaks down in the freezer.
Serve chilled or slightly cool; potato salad is not meant to be reheated.
🥄 Variations
Tangier Flavor:
Add an extra splash of vinegar or more pickle relish. Smoother Texture:
Mash a few potatoes slightly while mixing. More Crunch:
Add extra celery or chopped bell pepper. Mustard-Forward Style:
Increase mustard to 2–3 tablespoons for a more pronounced tang. Egg Lover’s Version:
Add 1–2 extra hard-boiled eggs. No Onion Option:
Replace onion with only spring onions for milder flavor. ❓ 10 FAQs What potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet work beautifully — Yukon gold holds shape better. Should the potatoes cool before mixing?
Slightly warm potatoes absorb flavor better, so don’t wait too long. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — flavor improves after chilling. Can I use sweet pickle relish instead of dill?
Sweet relish is traditional in Southern potato salad. Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes — it will create a sweeter, tangier dressing. Why did my potato salad get mushy?
Overcooking potatoes. Cook until just fork-tender. Can I add bacon?
Yes — use cooked beef bacon or turkey bacon if desired. What if it's too thick?
Add a tablespoon of milk or more vinegar to loosen it. Is onion required?
No — spring onions alone can replace it. Can this be served warm?
Traditionally it’s served chilled or room temperature. 🏁 Conclusion This Classic Southern Potato Salad is creamy, tangy, flavorful, and comforting — exactly the way potato salad should be. The blend of tender potatoes, smooth mayo dressing, crisp vegetables, and subtle spice makes it a timeless favorite. It’s easy, familiar, and always a crowd-pleaser. Bring it to gatherings and watch it disappear fast — because everyone loves real Southern flavor.
Add an extra splash of vinegar or more pickle relish. Smoother Texture:
Mash a few potatoes slightly while mixing. More Crunch:
Add extra celery or chopped bell pepper. Mustard-Forward Style:
Increase mustard to 2–3 tablespoons for a more pronounced tang. Egg Lover’s Version:
Add 1–2 extra hard-boiled eggs. No Onion Option:
Replace onion with only spring onions for milder flavor. ❓ 10 FAQs What potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet work beautifully — Yukon gold holds shape better. Should the potatoes cool before mixing?
Slightly warm potatoes absorb flavor better, so don’t wait too long. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — flavor improves after chilling. Can I use sweet pickle relish instead of dill?
Sweet relish is traditional in Southern potato salad. Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes — it will create a sweeter, tangier dressing. Why did my potato salad get mushy?
Overcooking potatoes. Cook until just fork-tender. Can I add bacon?
Yes — use cooked beef bacon or turkey bacon if desired. What if it's too thick?
Add a tablespoon of milk or more vinegar to loosen it. Is onion required?
No — spring onions alone can replace it. Can this be served warm?
Traditionally it’s served chilled or room temperature. 🏁 Conclusion This Classic Southern Potato Salad is creamy, tangy, flavorful, and comforting — exactly the way potato salad should be. The blend of tender potatoes, smooth mayo dressing, crisp vegetables, and subtle spice makes it a timeless favorite. It’s easy, familiar, and always a crowd-pleaser. Bring it to gatherings and watch it disappear fast — because everyone loves real Southern flavor.