Southern Potato Salad Recipe
This Southern potato salad recipe is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for family get-togethers, BBQs, and picnics. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this classic favorite is always a hit at any gathering.
Are you looking for more amazing Side Dishes? Try our Baked Beans, Cafeteria Noodles, or Jalapeno Cornbread.

Save this Recipe for later!
A classic side dish for any occasion, this homemade potato salad is a must-have during the warmer months. Whether you’re making it for a family reunion or a weeknight dinner, the creamy dressing and tender potatoes create a dish that’s always a hit. It tastes even better the second day, making it a great make-ahead dish.

Everyone has their own personal preference when it comes to potato salad. I like to sprinkle a little paprika on top, but my mom never did.
However you serve it, this classic Southern potato salad recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that always disappears fast!
What you’ll love about this Potato Salad Recipe:
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this amazing Southern Potatoes Salad Recipe:
- Russet Potatoes
- Eggs- I like to use 4 hard-boiled eggs, but feel free to use a couple more, or less.
- Mayonnaise- Growing up, Mom always used Hellmann’s, and so did I. But I recently discovered Duke’s mayonnaise, and now I love it!
- Yellow mustard
- Sweet pickle relish- I love using Mt. Olive sweet relish, but use your favorite brand.
- Onion- I use yellow onions, but a red onion can be used instead.
- Garlic powder, optional
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika for garnish, optional

INGREDIENT NOTES:
- Best potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets work well for a softer texture, but waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes hold their shape better.
- Mayonnaise & Mustard: The classic combination that gives this salad its creamy and tangy base.
- Eggs: A must-have in any Southern-style potato salad for richness and texture.
HOW TO MAKE POTATO SALAD STEP-BY-STEP:
Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.
Step 1: Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2: While the potatoes cook, place the eggs in a small pot of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to cool. Peel and chop the eggs.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.

Step 4: Add the cooked potatoes, chopped eggs, and diced onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Before serving, sprinkle with paprika for garnish, if desired.

PRO TIP:
For the best texture, let the potatoes cool completely before mixing with the dressing. This helps prevent a watery potato salad and allows the flavors to soak in better!

Storage and Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
To Serve: Enjoy chilled straight from the fridge.
To Freeze: Not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate.

Additions & Substitutions
ADDITIONS:
- Celery: Adds a fresh crunch to every bite.
- Dill Pickles: Swap sweet relish for diced dill pickles for a tangier twist.
- Olives: Green olives for a salty bite.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery texture.
- Onion: Swap white onion for green onions for a milder taste.

FAQs about this Best Potato Salad Recipe:


What Can I Serve with this Southern Potato Salad?
Serve this Potato Salad with fried chicken, BBQ, pork chops, or hot dogs for the perfect meal.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I’m excited for you to try this Southern Potato Salad Recipe! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – I’m eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do!

Southern Potato Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 medium Russet potatoes
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Paprika for garnish optional
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- While the potatoes cook, place the eggs in a small pot of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to cool. Peel and chop the eggs.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooked potatoes, chopped eggs, and diced onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
- Before serving, sprinkle with additional paprika for garnish, if desired.
Yummy yummy I love your potato salad