Classic Creamy Potato Salad

There’s something about a classic potato salad that just feels like home. This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the ultimate side dish for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor, with perfectly tender potatoes that are dressed in a velvety, rich mayonnaise-based sauce. Plus, the crunch of celery and the pop of hard-boiled eggs add the perfect texture and balance. Trust me, this is the kind of recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Classic Creamy Potato Salad

This potato salad is everything you want in a side dish—creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:

• Perfectly Creamy: The creamy mayo dressing envelops the tender potatoes, creating the perfect texture in every bite.
• Classic Flavor: With the right balance of tangy mustard, fresh herbs, and a touch of vinegar, this salad is packed with flavor without being overly complicated.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or pairing it with roasted chicken, this salad is a universal favorite for any meal.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this potato salad comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, classic potato salad:

For the Potato Salad

• Russet Potatoes: The best type of potatoes for potato salad! Russets have a starchy texture that gives you a light, fluffy bite while still holding together.
• Celery: Adds a nice, crisp crunch to contrast the creaminess of the salad.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: These are a must! They add richness and extra flavor to the salad.
• Red Onion: For a bit of sharpness and color.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness.

For the Dressing

• Mayonnaise: The base of the creamy dressing that binds everything together.
• Yellow Mustard: Adds a tangy bite that elevates the flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: For a little acidity and brightness.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, making sure everything is perfectly seasoned.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the tanginess of the vinegar and mustard.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make the best potato salad ever:

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Other Ingredients

While the potatoes are cooling, chop the celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Potato Salad

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized cubes and add them to the mixing bowl with the dressing. Gently stir to coat the potatoes with the creamy dressing. Then, fold in the celery, onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Give it another gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Before serving, give it a quick stir, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, flavorful potato salad with your favorite dishes!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 230 kcal

(Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (includes chill time)

How to Serve Classic Creamy Potato Salad

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with so many dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving it:

• With Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled burgers, chicken, or hot dogs for the ultimate BBQ meal.
• As Part of a Picnic Spread: This salad is a picnic classic and works great with sandwiches, fresh fruit, and cheese platters.
• With Roasted or Fried Chicken: The creamy potato salad balances beautifully with the crispy texture of fried chicken or tender roasted chicken.
• As a Light Lunch: Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a satisfying, easy lunch.

Additional Tips

• Make it Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
• Customize the Veggies: If you don’t have red onion or celery, feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or pickles.
• Adjust the Dressing: If you like your potato salad extra tangy, add more vinegar or mustard. For a milder flavor, reduce the mustard or sugar.
• Keep it Cold: This salad tastes best when chilled, so be sure to refrigerate it before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of potato?

A1: Absolutely! You can use Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a waxier variety. They have a buttery flavor and hold up well in salads.

Q2: Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?

A2: Yes! In fact, it’s even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I make this salad healthier?

A3: You can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo alternative to cut down on calories and fat while still keeping it creamy.

Q4: Can I add more veggies to this salad?

A4: Absolutely! You can add pickles, green onions, or even bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Q6: Can I freeze potato salad?

A6: Potato salad doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise base. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Q7: Can I make this without hard-boiled eggs?

A7: Yes! You can skip the eggs or substitute them with diced pickles for added crunch.

Q8: Can I add bacon to this recipe?

A8: Yes! Crumbled cooked bacon would add a delicious savory flavor and extra texture to the salad.

Q9: How can I make the salad more tangy?

A9: Add extra apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and give it more tang.

Q10: Can I use Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard?

A10: Yes! Dijon mustard will give the salad a more refined, slightly spicy flavor. It’s a great alternative if you prefer it.

Conclusion

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the perfect side dish for any gathering. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comforting, with just the right balance of tang and crunch. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a picnic in the park, this potato salad will be the star of the show. Make it ahead of time, serve it chilled, and watch it disappear!

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