This is hands-down the best potato salad recipe you’ll ever try — creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Dijon mustard, and crisp veggies, it’s the ultimate side dish for summer BBQs, holiday gatherings, and family potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Potato Salad
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Uses Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture
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Tangy dressing with Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar
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Packed with flavor from crunchy celery, red onion, and fresh parsley
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Easy to make ahead — even better the next day
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Crowd favorite for BBQs, cookouts, and potlucks
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High-traffic keywords: easy potato salad, potato salad with eggs, creamy side dish recipes
Ingredients Breakdown
Base:
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Yukon Gold or red potatoes – Tender but not mushy; perfect for holding their shape
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Hard-boiled eggs – Adds texture and protein
Dressing:
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Mayonnaise – The creamy base
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Dijon mustard – Adds tang and sharpness
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Apple cider vinegar – Brightens up the flavor
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Salt and black pepper – Classic seasoning
Add-ins:
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Celery – Crunchy and refreshing
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Red onion – Sharp flavor and color
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Fresh parsley – Adds brightness and visual appeal
Tips and Tricks
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For extra tang, add a splash of pickle juice or chopped dill pickles
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Use a mix of sour cream and mayo for a lighter, tangier dressing
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Don’t skip the chilling step — the flavors need time to meld
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Use an ice bath to quickly cool the boiled potatoes and prevent overcooking
Variations and Customizations
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Loaded Style: Add chopped bacon, shredded cheddar, and green onions
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Southern Twist: Add sweet relish or a touch of sugar
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Herbaceous Version: Mix in chopped dill, chives, or tarragon
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based mayo and omit the eggs
Pairing Suggestions
Serve this creamy potato salad alongside:
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Grilled burgers or hot dogs
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Barbecue ribs or chicken
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Fried fish or crab cakes
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Deviled eggs and baked beans for a complete picnic plate
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Make Ahead: Best made a day before serving
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Do Not Freeze: Mayo-based salads don’t freeze well and can separate
Popular Questions
Can I leave the skins on the potatoes?
Yes! Especially with red or Yukon Gold potatoes — the skins add texture and nutrients.
Is this potato salad gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just double-check that your mustard and mayo are certified gluten-free.
How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Be sure to let the potatoes cool completely before mixing and avoid overcooking them.