Classic Potato Salad is a beloved dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. This creamy, tangy salad is not only easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser at any event. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or just a regular meal, its rich flavor and comforting texture make it a staple side dish. Plus, with this classic recipe, you can enjoy the taste of homemade goodness just like mom used to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have this potato salad ready in no time.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of mayo and mustard gives it a perfect balance of creaminess and tang.
- Versatile Dish: Great for summer outings or paired with grilled meats, it’s suitable for various occasions.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with potatoes and eggs, this dish offers both carbs and protein.
- Make Ahead Option: It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make preparing your Classic Potato Salad a breeze, gather the essential tools you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until tender.
- Colander: Helps drain the potatoes quickly after boiling.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
Classic Potato Salad – a homemade potato salad that is just like mom used to make. Super creamy, tangy, easy to make and the perfect addition to any summer meal!
For the Salad
- 1 1/2-2 pounds red potatoes
- 3-4 hard boiled eggs
- 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
For the Dressing
- 2/3 cup mayo
- 1 Tablespoon milk
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Classic Potato Salad
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place your potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with 2 inches of cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for about 15 minutes or until you can easily insert a fork into the potatoes.
Step 2: Cool the Potatoes
After they are fork-tender, run them under cold water to stop the cooking process. If you prefer, remove the skin from the potatoes. Let them cool before mixing with the dressing.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, milk, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste your dressing and adjust seasonings if needed.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, add your cooled potatoes along with chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onion. Pour your dressing over these ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Taste again and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover your potato salad and place it in the fridge for at least an hour or until you’re ready to serve it. Enjoy!
How to Serve Classic Potato Salad
Serving Classic Potato Salad can elevate your meal, making it perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings. Here are some great ways to present this dish.
With Grilled Meats
- Grilled Chicken: The creaminess of the potato salad complements smoky grilled chicken perfectly.
- BBQ Ribs: Pairing with tangy BBQ ribs creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Steak: A hearty steak alongside potato salad makes for a satisfying meal.
As a Picnic Favorite
- Sandwiches: Serve alongside sandwiches for a classic picnic spread.
- Wraps: Include in wraps for an easy-to-eat option during outdoor events.
- Fresh Fruit: Balance the heaviness of the salad with refreshing fruit like watermelon or berries.
On a Buffet Table
- Chips and Dip: Add crunchy chips to give guests a variety of textures.
- Vegetable Platter: A colorful vegetable platter can enhance your buffet setup along with the potato salad.
How to Perfect Classic Potato Salad
To make sure your Classic Potato Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Bold potatoes: Choose red potatoes for their creamy texture and vibrant color.
- Bold seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the flavors as you mix the ingredients.
- Bold chilling time: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving; this enhances the flavors.
- Bold egg preparation: Use fresh eggs and ensure they are hard-boiled correctly for optimal taste and texture.
- Bold texture balance: Ensure you don’t over-mix; gently stirring keeps ingredients intact.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Potato Salad
Pairing your Classic Potato Salad with other dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that pairs beautifully with creamy potato salad.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a deliciously fresh flavor that complements potatoes well.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans offers a lovely contrast to the tangy potato salad.
- Deviled Eggs: Keeping with the egg theme, deviled eggs are always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying carb addition alongside your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Classic Potato Salad, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes for too long can result in a mushy texture. Aim for fork-tender potatoes that hold their shape well.
- Not Chilling the Salad: Serving potato salad immediately can lead to a lack of flavor. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Skimping on quality mayo or fresh vegetables can impact taste. Use good-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Taste testing is essential. Don’t forget to adjust seasonings like salt and pepper after mixing in the dressing.
- Ignoring Texture Variety: A bland texture can make your salad unappealing. Include crunchy ingredients like celery and onions for added bite.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Classic Potato Salad in an airtight container.
- It will keep for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it in the container.
Freezing Classic Potato Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of potatoes and mayonnaise.
- If you do freeze it, use an airtight, freezer-safe container.
- Consume within 1-2 months for best quality, but be aware of potential texture changes upon thawing.
Reheating Classic Potato Salad
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through. This method helps maintain texture better than other methods.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Classic Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made a day in advance as it allows the flavors to develop further.
What types of potatoes are best for Classic Potato Salad?
Red potatoes are ideal due to their waxy texture, which holds up well when boiled. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier result.
How can I customize my Classic Potato Salad?
Feel free to add ingredients like pickles, bacon bits, or fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for extra flavor and variety.
Is Classic Potato Salad gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Classic Potato Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful addition to any meal that brings back nostalgic memories. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or enjoy on its own. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this timeless recipe at your next gathering!
Classic Potato Salad
Classic Potato Salad is the quintessential side dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. This creamy, tangy delight combines tender red potatoes with hard-boiled eggs, crunchy celery, and zesty dressing, making it a favorite at barbecues and potlucks. With its rich flavor and comforting texture, this recipe delivers the taste of homemade goodness that feels just like mom used to make—perfect for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2–2 pounds red potatoes
- 3–4 hard-boiled eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot covered with cold water for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large bowl, mix cooled potatoes with chopped eggs, celery, and onion. Pour dressing over and gently combine until well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg