When it comes to backyard barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, and family reunions, there’s one side dish that almost always makes an appearance — the All-American potato salad.
This creamy, flavorful classic has been a beloved staple for generations, offering a perfect balance of tender potatoes, tangy dressing, and crunchy mix-ins.
While every family has its own version, the true magic lies in crafting a potato salad that’s rich without being heavy, flavorful without overpowering your main course, and sturdy enough to survive a sunny picnic table.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to prepare yet delivers that “made with love” taste. Whether you’re planning for a large gathering or simply want a satisfying side for a weeknight dinner, this potato salad has you covered.
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All-American Potato Salad
This All-American Potato Salad is the ultimate creamy, tangy, and flavorful side dish for summer cookouts, picnics, and family dinners. Tender potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, fresh herbs, and a rich dressing come together in perfect harmony for a classic dish everyone will love.
Make this timeless recipe today and bring a taste of tradition to your table—one bite and it’ll become your go-to side! 🥔✨
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8
Ingredients
3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
¼ cup dill pickles, finely diced (or sweet pickles for a milder taste)
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup red onion, finely diced
2 green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Paprika, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Potatoes – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add diced potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and cool slightly.
Prepare the Eggs – While potatoes cook, peel and chop hard-boiled eggs.
Make the Dressing – In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Combine Ingredients – Add cooled potatoes, eggs, celery, red onion, green onions, pickles, and dill to the dressing. Toss gently to coat.
Chill Before Serving – Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Serve & Garnish – Sprinkle with paprika and extra dill before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a splash of pickle juice to the dressing.
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture, or Russets for a fluffier salad.
Chill overnight for a more developed flavor—perfect for make-ahead meal prep.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling & Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Potato Salad
Best potatoes to use for a creamy yet firm texture
The potato is the star of the show, so your choice matters. For the ideal texture, go for waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape after boiling, absorb flavors well, and deliver a creamy bite without turning mushy. Avoid high-starch potatoes like russets, which tend to crumble easily in salads.
Flavor-boosting ingredients that make all the difference
- Hard-boiled eggs – add richness and a subtle creaminess to the salad.
- Celery – provides crunch and freshness.
- Red onion – gives a gentle bite without overwhelming the flavor.
- Pickles or relish – infuse a tangy kick that balances the creaminess.
- Fresh herbs – dill and parsley brighten the flavor.
- Seasonings – classic choices include salt, black pepper, paprika, and a dash of celery seed.
Step-by-Step Instructions – Making It from Scratch
Preparing the potatoes for the ideal bite
- Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly. If you prefer a rustic salad, leave the skins on; for a more traditional look, peel them before cooking.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and season generously with salt. Starting with cold water ensures even cooking.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer until potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork (about 10–12 minutes). Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
- Drain and spread the potatoes on a baking sheet to cool quickly and prevent further cooking.
Creating the creamy dressing with balanced flavors
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, a splash of vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. Adjust the ratio to your liking — more mustard for tang, more mayo for creaminess. Fold in finely chopped celery, onion, and pickles or relish.
Combining ingredients without overmixing
Once the potatoes are cool, gently fold them into the dressing along with chopped hard-boiled eggs and fresh herbs. Use a light hand to keep the potato chunks intact. Taste and adjust seasoning before chilling.
Expert Tips for the Best Potato Salad Ever
Avoiding mushy potatoes
Boil gently and test early for doneness. Drain immediately once tender and cool quickly to preserve structure.
Adjusting seasoning for the perfect taste
Variations on the Classic Potato Salad
Southern-style potato salad with a tangy twist
Incorporate chopped pimentos, sweet pickle relish, and a little extra mustard for a vibrant, tangy profile. Some southern recipes also use a touch of hot sauce for warmth.
Healthy swaps for a lighter potato salad
Replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for added protein and a lighter texture. Use vinegar-based dressings for a sharper, fresher flavor.
Pairing Ideas – What to Serve with All-American Potato Salad
Perfect BBQ mains to complement this salad
- Grilled burgers and hot dogs
- Barbecued ribs or pulled pork
- Grilled chicken with smoky seasoning
Refreshing drinks to balance the creaminess
- Fresh-squeezed lemonade
- Iced tea with mint
- Light, crisp beers
Make-Ahead, Storage & Leftovers
How to prepare potato salad in advance
Potato salad tastes even better after a few hours of chilling, making it perfect for prepping ahead. Prepare up to 24 hours before serving for the best flavor.
Best practices for storing in the fridge
Keep potato salad in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
FAQs about All-American Potato Salad
Can you freeze potato salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended because the dressing tends to separate and potatoes change texture after thawing.
How long does potato salad last in the fridge?
Properly stored, it will keep for 3–4 days.
Can I make potato salad without mayonnaise?
Yes! Try a vinaigrette-style dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
What type of mustard is best for potato salad?
Classic yellow mustard is traditional, but Dijon offers a more sophisticated, slightly spicy taste.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and the texture softer. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
Conclusion & Final Serving Suggestions
All-American potato salad is more than just a side dish — it’s a slice of culinary tradition. The combination of creamy dressing, tender potatoes, and fresh crunch makes it a favorite across generations. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with new twists, this recipe is guaranteed to earn a spot at your table. Serve it chilled, garnished with paprika and fresh herbs, alongside your favorite BBQ mains, and you’ve got a dish that truly captures the spirit of summer.