Name: Classic Southern Style Potato Salad for Perfect Summer Picnics
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs. Yukon Gold Potatoes (Peeled and cubed); 1 teaspoon Salt (For boiling); 2 large Eggs (Hard-boiled and diced); 3/4 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute with light mayo or Greek yogurt); 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard (Can substitute with Dijon mustard); 1 tablespoon Sweet Relish (Can substitute with chopped sweet pickles); 1 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar (Can substitute with apple cider vinegar); 1/2 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Seasoning (Can substitute with Lawry's or homemade blend); 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked); 1/2 cup Green Onions (Sliced); 1 cup Celery (Chopped)

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Summer is synonymous with gatherings, and no table feels complete without a bowl of Classic Southern Style Potato Salad. This is not just any potato salad; it’s a creamy, tangy side that brings a comforting taste of tradition to your BBQs and picnics. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes that maintain their delightful texture, the salad bursts with the crunch of fresh celery and the zing of mustard and mayonnaise. What’s even better? This quick recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an effortless yet crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Plus, it’s gluten-free and vegetarian, so everyone can enjoy! Don’t you want to discover how to make this soulful classic that makes every bite feel like a warm hug?

Why is this potato salad irresistible?

Creamy Texture: With Yukon Gold potatoes, this salad has an incredible creaminess that holds its shape beautifully, making it a standout on any table.

Quick to Make: In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious side, perfect for unexpected gatherings or potlucks.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This Classic Southern Style Potato Salad is a delightful favorite among friends and family, bringing smiles to every summer BBQ or picnic.

Versatile Flavor: The balance of tangy mustard and sweet relish allows for easy customization—swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or add bacon bits for a savory twist!

Perfect Pairing: This dish complements everything from BBQ chicken to hearty burgers, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your summer feast.

Discover more delightful sides like our Vegan Potato Salad for a fantastic plant-based twist!

Classic Southern Style Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Yukon Gold Potatoes – Provides structure and a creamy texture; they hold their shape after cooking.
Salt – Enhances flavor during boiling, ensuring perfectly seasoned potatoes.
Eggs – Adds protein and creaminess; substitute with a vegan egg alternative for a plant-based version.
Mayonnaise – The main base for the dressing, offering richness; light mayo or Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
Yellow Mustard – Delivers tanginess; Dijon mustard provides a spicier kick if desired.
Sweet Relish – Brings sweetness and texture; chopped sweet pickles can be a substitute.
Red Wine Vinegar – Balances flavors with its acidity; apple cider vinegar works as an alternative.
Tony Chachere’s Seasoning – This Creole seasoning adds depth; replace with Lawry’s or a homemade spice blend as needed.
Black Pepper – Freshly cracked for optimal flavor; avoid pre-ground for the best results.
Green Onions – Offers freshness and crunch; chopped chives can provide a milder flavor alternative.
Celery – Adds crisp texture; can be omitted or swapped with chopped bell peppers for variety.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Southern Style Potato Salad

Step 1: Prep Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cubing 3 lbs. of Yukon Gold potatoes into one-inch pieces. Rinse the cubes with cool water to remove excess starch, ensuring your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad has the perfect creamy texture. This step will take just a few minutes and sets the foundation for your delicious dish.

Step 2: Boil Potatoes
Transfer the cubed potatoes to a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cook the potatoes until tender, about 10 minutes. They should be fork-tender but not mushy; drain and allow them to cool while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Boil Eggs
In a separate pot, layer 2 cold eggs and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then cover the pot and remove it from heat. Let the eggs sit covered for 15 minutes to ensure a perfect hard-boil. Afterward, cool them under cold running water, peel, and dice them into small pieces for your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad.

Step 4: Make Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon of sweet relish, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of Tony Chachere’s seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Together, these elements create a creamy and tangy dressing that perfectly complements your potato salad.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently fold in the cooled potatoes, diced celery, sliced green onions, and boiled eggs. Pour the dressing over the mixture and carefully fold everything together. The goal is to coat the ingredients evenly without mashing the potatoes, ensuring that your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad maintains wonderful texture and flavor.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning as desired, adding more mustard or seasoning to achieve your preferred flavor. If you’re ready to serve, scoop the potato salad into a serving dish. However, for best results, consider refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together, enriching the cohesiveness of this delightful summer staple.

Expert Tips for Classic Southern Style Potato Salad

Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Golds are ideal for this salad as they hold their shape well. Avoid Russets, which can become mushy.
Don’t Overboil: Keep an eye on your potatoes while boiling. They should be fork-tender but not falling apart to maintain the perfect texture in your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad.
Cool Before Mixing: Allow boiled potatoes to cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to prevent a soggy salad.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Add mustard or seasoning little by little to ensure the flavors don’t overpower the dish.
Refrigerate for Flavor Boost: For best results, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve Fresh: While the Classic Southern Style Potato Salad can last in the fridge for a few days, it’s always best enjoyed fresh for a vibrant taste experience.

What to Serve with Classic Southern Style Potato Salad?

Summer gatherings are perfect for showcasing the vibrant flavors of comforting sides and refreshing dishes.

BBQ Chicken: The smokiness of grilled BBQ chicken complements the creamy tang of the potato salad, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.
Grilled Burgers: Juicy, savory burgers bring a touch of heartiness, and the cool, creamy potato salad perfectly balances the meal’s richness.
Three-Bean Salad: This colorful, protein-packed salad offers a refreshing crunch and bite, enhancing the overall texture and flavor variety of your summer spread.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob brings a sun-kissed sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy notes of the potato salad.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw with its creamy dressing adds a crisp texture that perfectly complements the tender creaminess of your Southern-style potato salad.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea adds a southern charm to your table, providing a sweet sip to contrast the delights of your meal.
Lemonade: For a zesty kick, serve chilled lemonade; its citrusy brightness will elevate your gathering and add a refreshing touch.
Watermelon Slices: Juicy, sweet watermelon serves as a light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after enjoying savory dishes.
Berry Cobbler: Finish off your meal with a warm berry cobbler, bursting with flavors, echoing the comforting vibe of your Southern feast.

Let your taste buds explore these delicious pairings alongside your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Southern Style Potato Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can boil and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Additionally, you can hard-boil the eggs and keep them chilled until ready to use. To enhance flavor, prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead, refrigerating it separately. When you’re ready to assemble, simply mix the cooled potatoes, diced celery, sliced green onions, and boiled eggs with the dressing, allowing everything to come together beautifully. Your potato salad will taste just as delicious with this make-ahead strategy!

Classic Southern Style Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your taste and dietary needs—your kitchen adventure awaits!

Greek Yogurt: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier dressing that still delivers creamy goodness.
Imagine the delightful richness while benefiting from a lighter profile—perfect for those warm summer days!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a zesty twist that brings the heat to your classic salad.
This addition elevates the flavor profile and makes your potato salad a crowd favorite among spice lovers.
Bacon-Lover’s Delight: Incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon bits for a savory, smoky flavor that will impress your BBQ guests.
The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering contrast that everyone will love.
Fresh Herbs: Toss in a handful of fresh dill or parsley to brighten the dish and enhance its visual appeal.
The aromatic herbs will not only add flavor but will also offer a pop of color, making your salad visually stunning.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with firm tofu or a vegan egg alternative to create an entirely plant-based version of this comforting classic.
This adaptation ensures no one misses out on that familiar texture while keeping the essence of the traditional recipe alive.
Gourmet Mustard: Try using Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard for a more sophisticated tang that elevates the entire dish.
Dijon adds depth and a touch of gourmet flair to your homemade potato salad, making it stand out at any gathering.
Crunchy Veggies: Include diced bell peppers or carrots for an extra crunch that complements the softness of the potatoes.
These veggies not only add texture but also enhance the colorful presentation with their vivid hues.
Pickle Power: If you love a tangy profile, boost the sweet relish with finely chopped dill pickles or capers for a briny, crunchy experience.
The blend of flavors will bring a delightful complexity that is reminiscent of grandma’s secret recipe.

For more fantastic side dishes that can complement your summer meals, check out our Bacon Cabbage Potato for a hearty option or our fresh Vegan Potato Salad for a delicious plant-based twist!

How to Store and Freeze Classic Southern Style Potato Salad

Fridge: Store your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This will keep the salad fresh and help maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: While not recommended for long-term freezing due to the creamy ingredients, you can freeze the salad for up to 2 months. If desired, separate the dressing from the salad components before freezing to minimize texture changes.

Reheating: If you’ve stored the salad, simply let it thaw in the fridge before serving. Give it a good stir and consider adjusting the seasoning if flavors have dulled during storage.

Serving Temperature: Potato salad is best enjoyed chilled, so let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes after mixing to allow those delicious flavors to meld before serving.

Classic Southern Style Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor in your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. They maintain their structure after boiling, giving your salad that delightful creaminess. Avoid russets, as they tend to become mushy and won’t hold up as well in the salad.

How should I store my potato salad?
Very simple! Place your Classic Southern Style Potato Salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will keep it fresh and tasting just as delicious as the day you made it! If you want to enjoy it longer, consider making a smaller batch.

Can I freeze Classic Southern Style Potato Salad?
While it’s not typically recommended due to the mayonnaise and eggs, you can freeze it for up to 2 months if you really need to. Just ensure you separate the dressing from the potato salad components before freezing to minimize texture changes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then mix it well before serving.

How do I prevent overcooked potatoes?
A great question! To avoid mushy potatoes, keep an eye on them as they boil. Aim for fork-tender potatoes, which typically takes around 10 minutes. Remember to drain and cool them completely before mixing with other ingredients, as hot potatoes can lead to a soggy salad.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
No worries! This Classic Southern Style Potato Salad can easily accommodate dietary needs. Substitute the eggs with a vegan egg alternative for a plant-based version, and swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter option. For gluten concerns, rest assured this recipe is gluten-free as written!