A creamy and flavorful classic, this Traditional Southern Potato Salad combines tender russet potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, sweet relish, and a seasoned mayonnaise-mustard dressing. It’s a staple at Southern gatherings, known for its comforting texture and perfectly balanced tang. Whether for summer cookouts, holiday dinners, or family potlucks, this timeless side dish always delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe captures the essence of traditional Southern comfort food in every bite. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, thanks to the blend of creamy mayo, tangy mustard, and sweet relish. The addition of boiled eggs adds richness, while a dash of paprika and fresh parsley elevates its presentation. It’s easy to prepare ahead, making it ideal for entertaining or meal prepping. Whether served chilled at a picnic or alongside a warm main dish, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- mayonnaise
- yellow mustard
- sweet pickle relish
- finely chopped red onion
- hard-boiled eggs (chopped and sliced for garnish)
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- paprika (plus more for garnish)
- chopped fresh parsley
- salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Add cubed potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and allow to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, relish, red onion, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooled potatoes and chopped hard-boiled eggs to the bowl. Gently fold until the potatoes are fully coated with the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sliced egg, a sprinkle of paprika, and chopped parsley.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 290 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Dill Twist: Replace sweet relish with dill relish and add chopped fresh dill for a tangier flavor profile.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan mayonnaise and omit the eggs for a plant-based version.
- Bacon Addition: For a smoky, savory boost, add crumbled cooked bacon just before serving.
- Creamier Texture: Mix in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
storage/reheating
Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is best served chilled and does not require reheating. If the dressing becomes dry over time, stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise before serving to refresh the texture. Avoid freezing, as the potatoes may become mushy when thawed.
FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Southern potato salad?
Russet potatoes are traditionally used for their starchy texture, which helps absorb the dressing well. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good option for a creamier finish.
Can I make Southern potato salad in advance?
Yes, this dish is ideal for making ahead. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop and blend beautifully.
How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
Be careful not to overcook the potatoes. Boil them just until fork-tender, then drain and let them cool to prevent excess moisture.
Can I use dill pickles instead of sweet relish?
Yes, you can substitute chopped dill pickles or dill relish for a tangier taste if you prefer less sweetness.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or use a combination of low-fat mayo and plain Greek yogurt to lighten the dish.
How long can potato salad sit out at room temperature?
For food safety, do not leave potato salad out for more than two hours. Keep it chilled in a cooler if serving outdoors.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly. Some variations include diced celery, bell peppers, or peas for extra texture and flavor.
Should the salad be served cold or warm?
Southern potato salad is traditionally served cold, allowing the flavors to meld together after chilling.
What’s the difference between Southern potato salad and other types?
Southern potato salad typically includes mustard and sweet relish, giving it a distinct tangy-sweet flavor, along with chopped eggs and paprika garnish.
Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe. Just make sure to use a large enough mixing bowl and adjust seasoning as needed.
Conclusion
Traditional Southern Potato Salad is a time-honored side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its creamy texture, tangy-sweet seasoning, and classic garnishes, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or holiday roasts. Easy to make ahead and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is a must-have for your entertaining and everyday rotation.
Traditional Southern Potato Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful classic, this Southern potato salad features tender potatoes, chopped eggs, relish, and a seasoned mayo-mustard dressing—perfect for cookouts, holidays, and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
- 4 hard-boiled eggs (3 chopped, 1 sliced for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add cubed potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, relish, chopped red onion, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooled potatoes and chopped eggs to the dressing and gently mix until coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Spoon into a serving dish and garnish with egg slices, a sprinkle of paprika, and chopped parsley.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the salad helps the flavors meld together.
- Adjust relish amount to suit your sweetness preference.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
