Best Potato Salad Recipes: Finding the Perfect Potato Salad Recipe for You
Summertime is synonymous with picnics and barbecues, and that usually means loads of delicious food. If you’re looking for a dish to bring to your next outdoor gathering, why not try one of the options from this list of the best potato salad recipes? From classic potato salads with mayo and mustard to more creative versions with bacon and herbs, there’s a recipe for everyone here.
This list of the best potato salad recipes will spotlight the top options and will allow you to find the perfect potato salad recipe for any get together. With a variety of flavors to choose from, these recipes will provide the perfect way to enjoy a classic summer side dish.
When you are finished with this list of the best potato salad recipes, visit our lists of the best pasta salad recipes, best Greek salad recipes, and best macaroni salad recipes. These lists will pair nicely with this one and make sure that you have more great recipes.
Top 12 Potato Salad Recipes:
1. Classic Potato Salad
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Yukon Gold potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, pickles, celery, red onion, mayonnaise, buttermilk, mustard
About Potato Salad Recipe: This creamy and comforting dish is the gold standard of potato salads, featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes, crisp celery, and zesty red onion. The combination of mayonnaise, mustard, and buttermilk gives it a rich, tangy flavor that’s perfect for any summer spread. Hard-boiled eggs and pickles add texture and a touch of sweetness. It’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.
2. Old-Fashioned Potato Salad
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, sweet relish, mayonnaise, mustard, onion
About Potato Salad Recipe: With its nostalgic flavor and satisfying texture, this old-fashioned potato salad brings you right back to grandma’s kitchen. It’s a simple yet flavorful blend of creamy mayo, sharp mustard, and sweet relish. The addition of chopped hard-boiled eggs and crunchy celery creates the perfect bite. Ideal for potlucks or backyard cookouts, it’s a time-tested favorite.
3. World’s Best Potato Salad
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Potatoes, eggs, celery, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar
About Potato Salad Recipe: This recipe earns its bold name with a perfectly balanced dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and a hint of sugar. The result is a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the soft potatoes and crunchy veggies. Celery and onion provide freshness, while hard-boiled eggs add richness. It’s the perfect sidekick to grilled meats or sandwiches.
4. Best Classic Potato Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, pickles, mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard
About Potato Salad Recipe: This version sticks closely to tradition while adding a twist with sour cream in the dressing, giving it a silky, tangy boost. Pickles, celery, and eggs add variety and crunch in every forkful. The combination of creamy textures and savory flavors makes this a go-to for any gathering. It’s comfort food that feels just fancy enough.
5. The BEST Potato Salad
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Yukon Gold potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, red onion, dill pickle relish, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard
About Potato Salad Recipe: This potato salad uses Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery texture and adds the punch of Dijon mustard and dill pickle relish. It’s creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor from red onion and celery. The ingredients meld together beautifully for a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.
6. FoodieCrush Potato Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Yukon Gold potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice
About Potato Salad Recipe: A vibrant version of the classic, this recipe stands out with the addition of pickle juice, which brings a briny tang that cuts through the creaminess. The use of Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a buttery texture, while hard-boiled eggs and crunchy veggies add depth. The dressing strikes a great balance between rich and sharp. It’s a smart, flavor-forward take on a traditional favorite.
7. The Best Potato Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Potatoes, bacon, celery, cucumber, onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard
About Potato Salad Recipe: This recipe takes it up a notch with the savory addition of crispy bacon and a hint of cucumber for extra crunch. The dressing combines mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard for a tangy and creamy finish. Celery and onion give it classic texture, while the bacon makes every bite feel indulgent. It’s a must-try for those who want a heartier potato salad.
8. Classic Potato Salad
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, pickles, mayonnaise, mustard
About Potato Salad Recipe: Sometimes less is more, and this traditional version proves it with its clean, balanced flavor. A creamy mayo-and-mustard base coats soft potatoes, while chopped pickles, celery, and onion provide just the right amount of crunch. Hard-boiled eggs bring richness and protein, making it more satisfying than your average side. It’s a simple recipe done just right.
9. Love & Lemons Best Potato Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Yukon Gold potatoes, celery, dill pickles, chives, dill, mayonnaise, pickle brine
About Potato Salad Recipe: This bright and herbaceous salad uses fresh dill and chives to bring out the best in every bite. Tangy dill pickles and brine add zip, while celery and Yukon Gold potatoes create a delightful contrast in texture. The creamy dressing is light but flavorful, making this a great choice for warmer days. It’s fresh, modern, and incredibly easy to love.
10. The Best Potato Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, pickles, mayonnaise, mustard
About Potato Salad Recipe: This no-fuss recipe hits all the classic notes with a creamy mayo and mustard dressing and traditional mix-ins like pickles and onions. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. Hard-boiled eggs give it richness, while the potatoes soak up all the flavorful goodness. If you’re new to potato salad or just want a reliable go-to, this one’s for you.
11. Authentic German Potato Salad
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Primary Ingredients: Red potatoes, bacon, onion, white vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, fresh parsley
About Potato Salad Recipe: Unlike the mayo-based versions, this German classic is served warm and features a bold vinegar and bacon dressing. Red potatoes hold their shape nicely while soaking up all the savory flavor from the sautéed onions and bacon drippings. A bit of sugar balances the acidity, and fresh parsley brightens it up at the end. It’s tangy, smoky, and completely irresistible.
Editor’s Picks: Our Favorite Potato Salad Recipes to Try First
When it comes to the best potato salad recipes, a few stand out as all-time favorites. The Classic Potato Salad with Yukon Gold potatoes and tangy buttermilk is an undisputed go-to for its creamy texture and crowd-pleasing flavors. Another top choice is the Authentic German Potato Salad, which skips the mayo in favor of a bold, warm bacon-vinegar dressing—perfect for those wanting something savory and unique. For herb lovers, the Love & Lemons Best Potato Salad Recipe brings a fresh, zesty flair that’s perfect for summertime. These editor’s picks offer a great place to start and showcase just how versatile this side dish can be.
Tips for Making the Best Potato Salad Recipes at Home
Perfecting your homemade potato salad starts with choosing the right potatoes—Yukon Gold and red potatoes are top picks for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape. Don’t overcook your potatoes; they should be fork-tender, not mushy. Always season your potatoes while they’re warm—this helps them absorb more flavor. Chill the salad before serving to let the ingredients meld together. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with fresh herbs, pickle brine, bacon, or even sour cream for depth and variation in flavor. Small upgrades can turn a good salad into a show-stopping side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Potato Salad Recipes
What type of potatoes work best for potato salad?
Yukon Gold and red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well after boiling and have a creamy texture. Russet potatoes are softer and tend to fall apart, which can result in a mushier salad.
Should you peel the potatoes before boiling?
You can boil potatoes with or without the skin depending on preference. Boiling with the skin on helps retain flavor and nutrients. After boiling, the skins can be easily removed if desired, or left on for a rustic touch.
How long can you store homemade potato salad?
Homemade potato salad typically lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Always keep it cold, and don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours to ensure food safety.
Can you make potato salad in advance?
Yes, in fact, potato salad often tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Just give it a gentle stir before serving and add a touch more mayo or mustard if it looks dry.
How do I keep my potato salad from getting watery?
Drain your cooked potatoes thoroughly and allow them to cool completely before mixing with other ingredients. You can also pat them dry with a paper towel. Watery salads often come from excess moisture that wasn’t properly removed.
Best Potato Salad Recipes Conclusion
No matter what your taste buds are craving, one of these delicious potato salad recipes is sure to hit the spot.
So get started. Your friends and family will be thanking you for bringing such a tasty dish to the party.
Have you tried any of these potato salad recipes? If so, please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
