Southern Potato Salad: A Classic Creamy & Tangy Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Southern Potato Salad at a summer BBQ, family gathering, or potluck. This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, loved for its rich flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken, grilled ribs, or pulled pork, this Southern Potato Salad recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through:
✔️ The best potatoes to use for Southern Potato Salad
✔️ How to perfectly boil potatoes (without turning them mushy)
✔️ The secret ingredients that make this recipe stand out
✔️ Make-ahead tips for stress-free meal prep
✔️ Variations & substitutions to customize your salad

Plus, we’ll answer frequently asked questions and provide nutritional information so you can enjoy this classic dish with confidence.

Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Southern Potato Salad Recipe

✅ Creamy & Tangy – The perfect balance of mayo, mustard, and vinegar creates a rich yet zesty dressing.
✅ Loaded with Flavor – Hard-boiled eggs, crunchy celery, green onions, and relish add texture and depth.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes (or make it ahead for even easier prep!).
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners.

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Ingredients for the Best Southern Potato Salad

To make an authentic Southern Potato Salad, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 3 lbs Russet potatoes (about 5 medium) – The best potatoes for a sturdy yet creamy texture.
• 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise – The base of the creamy dressing.
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard – Adds tanginess and depth.
• ¼ cup pickle relish – Sweet or dill relish works (adjust to taste).
• ½ tsp garlic powder – Enhances savory notes.
• 2 tsp sugar – Balances the tanginess.
• 2 tsp white vinegar – Brightens the flavors.
• 5 hard-boiled eggs, diced – Adds richness and protein.
• 2 stalks celery, diced – For a refreshing crunch.
• 5 green onions, diced – A mild oniony bite.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Paprika (optional garnish) – Adds color and a smoky hint.

Why Russet Potatoes?

Russets hold their shape well when boiled but still become tender enough to blend smoothly with the dressing. Yukon Golds are a good alternative if you prefer a slightly creamier texture.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep & Boil the Potatoes

• Peel and cube potatoes into 1-inch pieces (uniform size ensures even cooking).
• Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 2 tsp salt.
• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
• Cook for 10 minutes or until fork-tender (do not overcook, or they’ll turn mushy).
• Drain well and let cool slightly.

2. Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise
• Yellow mustard
• Pickle relish
• Garlic powder
• Sugar
• White vinegar

3. Combine & Fold

• Gently fold in warm potatoes (they absorb flavors better when slightly warm).
• Add diced eggs, celery, and green onions.
• Season with salt & pepper to taste.

4. Chill & Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (best if made a day ahead).
• Before serving, garnish with sliced eggs and a sprinkle of paprika.

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 The Best Potatoes for Southern Potato Salad

When it comes to making the perfect Southern Potato Salad, choosing the right type of potato is crucial. Not all potatoes are created equal—some hold their shape better, while others turn mushy when boiled. The texture of your potato salad depends heavily on the variety you use, so let’s break down the best options.

Why Russet Potatoes Are the Top Choice

Russet potatoes (also called Idaho potatoes) are the gold standard for Southern Potato Salad. Here’s why:

• • • Starchy Texture – Russets have a high starch content, which helps them absorb the creamy dressing while still maintaining a firm bite.
    • Fluffy When Cooked – Unlike waxy potatoes, Russets break down slightly when boiled, creating a creamy yet structured texture.
    • Neutral Flavor – They don’t overpower the other ingredients, allowing the tangy dressing, eggs, and veggies to shine.

Alternative Potato Options

If you can’t find Russets or prefer a different texture, here are some alternatives:

• • 1. Yukon Gold Potatoes – These have a medium starch content, making them slightly creamier than Russets but still sturdy enough for salad.
    2. Red Potatoes – A waxy variety that holds its shape well, but they can be a bit dense. If using red potatoes, reduce boiling time to 8 minutes to avoid mushiness.
    3. White Potatoes – Similar to Yukon Golds but with a milder flavor. They work well but may need extra seasoning.

How to Prep Potatoes for Perfect Texture

• • • Peel or Leave Skin On? Traditional Southern Potato Salad uses peeled potatoes for a smoother texture, but leaving the skin on adds fiber and a rustic touch.
    • Cut Uniformly – Dice into 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly.
    • Start with Cold Water – Always place potatoes in cold, salted water before boiling to ensure even cooking.
    • Don’t Overcook! Boil just until fork-tender (about 10 minutes for Russets). Overcooked potatoes turn into a gluey mess.

Pro Tip: Vinegar Soak (Optional)

Some Southern cooks swear by soaking boiled potatoes in a splash of vinegar and water for 10 minutes before mixing with dressing. This enhances flavor and helps them hold shape.

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The Secret to the Creamiest Southern Potato Salad Dressing

The dressing is what sets Southern Potato Salad apart from other versions. It’s creamy, tangy, and just a little sweet, with a perfect balance of flavors. Let’s break down the key components and how to customize it.

The Base: Mayonnaise vs. Miracle Whip

• • • Real Mayonnaise (like Duke’s or Hellmann’s) is the classic choice—rich, creamy, and slightly tangy.
    • Miracle Whip is sweeter and less oily; use it if you prefer a lighter, tangier dressing.
    • Vegan Mayo works well for dairy-free versions.

Must-Have Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

• • 1. Yellow Mustard – Adds a sharp, tangy kick.
    2. Pickle Relish – Sweet or dill relish both work; it adds moisture and a slight crunch.
    3. Sugar – Just 2 teaspoons balances the acidity.
    4. White Vinegar – Brightens the flavors (apple cider vinegar works too).
    5. Garlic Powder – Enhances savoriness without overpowering.

Creamy vs. Tangy Adjustments

• • • For Extra Creaminess → Add 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt.
    • For More Tang → Increase mustard to 1.5 tbsp or add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar.
    • For a Smoky Twist → Mix in ½ tsp smoked paprika.

How to Avoid a Runny Dressing

• • • Drain Potatoes Well – Excess water makes dressing watery.
    • Cool Potatoes Slightly – Warm potatoes absorb dressing better.
    • Chill Before Serving – The dressing thickens as it sits.

Make-Ahead Tip

The flavors meld beautifully overnight. Prepare the salad a day in advance for the best taste!

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 How to Customize Southern Potato Salad

One of the best things about Southern Potato Salad is how versatile it is. Whether you like it classic, spicy, or loaded with extras, there’s a variation for everyone. Here are some delicious twists to try.

1. Spicy Southern Potato Salad

• • • Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 diced jalapeño.
    • Mix in 2 tbsp hot sauce or 1 tsp Creole seasoning.
    • Garnish with pickled jalapeños for extra heat.

2. Loaded Potato Salad (Bacon & Cheese)

• • • Stir in ½ cup crispy bacon bits.
    • Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
    • Top with chopped chives for freshness.

3. Mustard-Based (No Mayo)

• • • Replace mayo with ½ cup yellow mustard + ½ cup Greek yogurt.
    • Great for those who dislike mayo-based salads.

4. Vegan Southern Potato Salad

• • • Use vegan mayo or avocado mash as the base.
    • Skip eggs or add diced tofu scramble for protein.

5. German-Inspired (Warm Potato Salad)

• • • Skip mayo and use a bacon-vinegar dressing.
    • Serve warm with fresh dill and red onions.

6. Southern Deviled Egg Potato Salad

• • • Mash yolks into the dressing for extra richness.
    • Garnish with sliced deviled eggs on top.

Serving Suggestions

• • • Classic BBQ Pairing → Serve with pulled pork, ribs, or fried chicken.
    • Picnic Side → Pack in a sealed container with ice packs.
    • Potluck Favorite → Double the recipe for a crowd.

Storage Tips

• • Fridge → Keeps for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Potato Salad

🔹 Don’t Overcook Potatoes – They should be tender but still hold shape.
🔹 Dress While Warm – Potatoes absorb flavors better when slightly warm.
🔹 Adjust Sweetness/Tang – Add more sugar or vinegar to taste.
🔹 Make Ahead – Flavors meld beautifully overnight!

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Variations & Substitutions

1. Spicy Southern Potato Salad

• Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.

2. Bacon & Cheddar Loaded

• Mix in ½ cup crispy bacon bits & ½ cup shredded cheddar.

3. Mustard-Based (No Mayo)

• Replace mayo with ½ cup mustard + ½ cup Greek yogurt.

4. Vegan Southern Potato Salad

• Use vegan mayo and omit eggs (or add tofu scramble).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I use red potatoes instead of Russets?

Yes, but they’re waxier—reduce boiling time to 8 minutes.

❓ How long does Southern Potato Salad last?

Up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

❓ Can I freeze potato salad?

No—mayo-based salads separate when thawed.

❓ Why add sugar?

It balances the tanginess—omit if you prefer less sweetness.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

| Calories | 438kcal |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |

Nutritional info is estimated. For precise values, use a calculator with your exact ingredients.

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Final Thoughts

This Southern Potato Salad is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, holiday feast, or weeknight dinner, it’s always a hit.