Why settle for ordinary potato salad when you can serve the legendary Southern version? This isn’t just a side dish—it’s a creamy, tangy, soul-satisfying masterpiece that transforms any picnic, cookout, or family gathering into a feast everyone will remember.
Imagine tender potatoes wrapped in a rich, zesty dressing, crunchy celery for texture, a hint of sweetness from pickle relish, and that unmistakable Southern flair that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
This is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition, bringing memories of church suppers, summer barbecues, and Grandma’s kitchen right to your table.
Why Southern Potato Salad Is Extra Special
Creamy, Not Soupy – The perfect balance of mayonnaise and mustard clings to each potato piece, giving you silky, flavorful bites.
Sweet & Tangy Twist – Sweet pickle relish and a splash of vinegar create that signature Southern zing.
Textural Heaven – Tender potatoes, crisp celery, and hard-boiled eggs make every bite a little party.
Layered Flavor – Paprika, a hint of onion, and celery seed ensure each forkful is bursting with depth.
Ingredients for Authentic Southern Potato Salad
Potatoes:
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3 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
Dressing:
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1 ½ cups mayonnaise (Duke’s preferred for authenticity!)
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¼ cup yellow mustard
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¼ cup sweet pickle relish (with juice)
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon celery seed
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Mix-ins:
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4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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1 cup celery, finely diced
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½ cup red onion, finely diced
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional: ¼ cup chopped dill pickles
For Garnish:
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Paprika
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Sliced hard-boiled eggs
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Fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Potato Salad
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes to Perfection
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Place peeled, cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
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Add 1 tablespoon salt and bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until just tender (fork should slide in easily).
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Crucial Step: Drain immediately and spread potatoes on a baking sheet to cool completely.
Step 2: Create the Legendary Dressing
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In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, vinegar, celery seed, and paprika.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Let the dressing sit while potatoes cool to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Combine with Care
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Add completely cooled potatoes to the dressing.
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Gently fold in chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and parsley.
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Mix until everything is evenly coated—be gentle to avoid mashed potatoes!
Step 4: The Southern Secret—Chill Time
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
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This allows the flavors to marry and the potatoes to absorb the dressing.
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Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Step 5: Serve with Style
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Transfer to a serving bowl.
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Garnish with paprika, egg slices, and fresh parsley.
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Serve chilled and watch it disappear!
