Print

Classic Homemade Potato Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Side Dish Like Mom Made

classic homemade potato salad - featured image

A quick and easy classic homemade potato salad with simple ingredients, perfect for summer gatherings and family meals. Creamy, tangy, and nostalgic, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and connection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 g) Yukon Gold or red potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise (Hellmann’s recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 3 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or pickle juice

Instructions

  1. Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch (2.5 cm). Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork but they’re not falling apart. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While potatoes boil, place eggs in a separate pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes. Cool eggs under cold running water, peel, and chop roughly.
  3. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Add the optional apple cider vinegar or pickle juice if using. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
  4. Once potatoes are warm but not hot, gently fold them into the dressing with the chopped celery and eggs. Be careful not to mash the potatoes—keep them tender but intact.
  5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to let flavors meld. Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Start boiling potatoes in cold water to prevent mushiness. Peeling potatoes is optional; leaving skins on adds texture and nutrients. Fold ingredients gently to keep potato chunks intact. Chill for at least one hour or overnight for best flavor. Optional add-ins include diced red onion, pickles, fresh herbs, or a spicy kick with smoked paprika or hot sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, classic potato salad, homemade potato salad, easy potato salad, summer side dish, picnic recipe, barbecue side dish