If there’s one dish that truly defines comfort food in the South, it’s Southern Potato Salad. Creamy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned, this timeless recipe has graced potlucks, picnics, and backyard barbecues for generations. It’s the kind of side dish that pairs effortlessly with fried chicken, ribs, or burgers — and always brings that touch of homemade nostalgia to the table.
The best part? It’s simple, satisfying, and ready in about 30 minutes — or even better when made a day ahead so the flavors can blend to perfection.
🥔 What Is Southern Potato Salad?
Southern Potato Salad is a rich and creamy dish made with tender boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sweetness from pickle relish. Each Southern family has its own version — some with a bit more mustard, others with extra eggs or a spoonful of sugar — but they all share the same comforting, old-fashioned goodness.
This recipe brings together classic flavors: creamy mayo, tangy mustard, crunchy celery, and sweet pickles — all tied together with a sprinkle of paprika for color and that signature Southern flair.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
- 3 pounds russet potatoes (medium-sized)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- ½ sweet onion, finely chopped
- 4 hard-boiled eggs (3 chopped, 1 sliced for garnish)
- Paprika, for topping
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 How to Make Southern Potato Salad
1. Boil the Potatoes
- Cut each potato in half and place them in a large pot.
- Cover with water (about 1 inch above the potatoes) and add 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain well and allow to cool slightly.
2. Peel and Chop
Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and discard them.
Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, and onion powder until smooth and creamy.
Pour this dressing over the warm potatoes and toss gently to coat.
4. Add the Mix-Ins
Fold in sweet pickle relish, chopped celery, onion, and chopped eggs.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until everything is well combined.
5. Chill and Serve
Top with sliced egg and a generous dusting of paprika for that Southern finish.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) so the flavors meld beautifully.
💡 Tips for the Best Southern Potato Salad
- Use russet potatoes for a creamy, fluffy texture. Yukon golds also work if you prefer a slightly firmer bite.
- Add a pop of color with chopped dill pickles, diced red bell pepper, or a sprinkle of chives.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop overnight.
- Adjust the tang: Prefer it sharper? Add more mustard or vinegar. Like it sweeter? Add a bit more relish or sugar.
🍗 What to Serve With Southern Potato Salad
This classic side dish pairs beautifully with:
- Crispy Fried Chicken 🍗
- Juicy Barbecue Ribs 🍖
- Grilled Burgers or Hot Dogs 🌭
- Fried Catfish or Shrimp 🐟
It’s also perfect for holidays, family reunions, or summer cookouts — basically any time you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing side.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Potato Salad isn’t just a dish — it’s a tradition. It brings people together around good food and good memories. Every bite is creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced — proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most heartwarming flavors.
Whether it’s sitting beside crispy fried chicken at a picnic table or being passed around at Sunday dinner, this old-fashioned potato salad will always have a special place at the Southern table.
