Grandma’s Old Fashioned Potato Salad

There’s nothing quite like a summer picnic, and potato salad is always a star of the show. This old-fashioned Potato Salad recipe is passed down from my grandma, and it’s the best I’ve ever had.

Plus, it’s really simple to make – you just need a few basic ingredients.

This classic potato salad is perfect for any occasion, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with your friends and family.

So give this recipe a try today, and you’ll be glad you did!

So, if you’re looking for a delicious and old-fashioned potato salad recipe to make for your next picnic or potluck, be sure to try grandma’s recipe!

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why I love this Grandma’s Old Fashioned Potato Salad recipe

It’s always great to have a family recipe that you cherish, and there’s nothing quite like Grandma’s cooking! Perhaps you love this recipe because it reminds you of happy memories or simply because it’s just delicious. Whatever the reason, I’m sure it’s a special dish for you.

What Type of Potato Is Best for Potato Salad

For potato salad, you want to use a waxy potato variety, as they hold their shape well and won’t turn mushy when boiled. Some good options include red-skinned potatoes, new potatoes, and Yukon Gold potatoes.

Recipe Variations

There are many ways to customize a potato salad recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are some recipe variations you can try:

German-style potato salad: This recipe uses a warm bacon dressing instead of a mayonnaise-based dressing and includes sliced onions and chopped bacon for extra flavor.

Dijon potato salad: This recipe features a tangy Dijon mustard dressing with chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley.

Loaded baked potato salad: This recipe combines the flavors of a loaded baked potato with potato salad. It includes bacon, sour cream, chives, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Southwest potato salad: This recipe includes black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a spicy chipotle dressing for a Tex-Mex twist on traditional potato salad.

Classic potato salad with eggs: This recipe adds hard-boiled eggs to the mix for a protein-packed salad that’s perfect for picnics and potlucks.

Italian potato salad: This recipe features a tangy vinaigrette dressing with chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.

Mustard and dill potato salad: This recipe uses a tangy mustard and dill dressing with chopped red onion and fresh dill for a flavorful and refreshing salad.

Sweet potato salad: This recipe uses roasted sweet potatoes, pecans, and dried cranberries, with a maple-mustard dressing for a sweet and savory twist on traditional potato salad.

Can I Boil Potatoes Ahead of Time for Potato Salad

Yes, you can definitely boil the potatoes ahead of time for potato salad. Just be sure to cool them completely before adding them to the other ingredients. You can also store the boiled potatoes in the refrigerator for a day or two before making the salad.

How long does it keep?

Potato salad can last in the refrigerator for up to three to five days if stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it cold and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods of time.

Pro Tips

Choose the right type of potato: For potato salad, use waxy potatoes such as red potatoes, new potatoes, or Yukon Gold potatoes. These varieties hold their shape well and won’t turn mushy when boiled.

Cook the potatoes correctly: Make sure to boil the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, but not overcooked. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and fall apart in the salad.

Cool the potatoes completely: Once the potatoes are cooked, be sure to cool them completely before adding the other ingredients. This helps the potatoes retain their texture and prevents the dressing from becoming runny.

Add the dressing gradually: Add the dressing to the potato salad a little bit at a time, stirring gently to coat the potatoes evenly. This helps prevent the salad from becoming overly saturated with dressing.

Don’t overmix: Be careful not to overmix the potato salad, as this can cause the potatoes to break down and become mushy. Stir gently and just enough to evenly coat the potatoes with the dressing.

Season to taste: Taste the potato salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Let it chill: Once the potato salad is mixed, refrigerate it for at least a few hours or overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and results in a more delicious salad.

How much potato salad per person?

A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup of potato salad per person. However, this can vary depending on the other dishes you’re serving and the appetites of your guests.

Ingredients:

• Idaho potatoes
• Onion
• Eggs
• Sweet pickle cubes
• Dill pickle cubes
• Celery stalk 
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hellman’s Mayonnaise
• Mustard
• Paprika for garnish

How to make Old Fashioned Potato Salad:

Step 1: Slice your peeled potatoes into thin cuts.

Step 2: In a 5-quart pot, add potatoes and water.

Step 3: Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to medium.

Step 4: Drain your potatoes and allow them to cool.

Step 5: In a medium mixing bowl, add your eggs and onion, and stir to combine.

Step 6: Grab another mixing bowl and add celery, pickles, mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.

Step 7: Mix all ingredients together.

Step 8: Now, add the potatoes.

Step 9: Then, add the eggs and onion.

Step 10: Add in the mayonnaise and stir until blended.

Step 11: Add in your sliced hard-boiled eggs on top and sprinkle paprika.

THANKS FOR PINING!

How far in advance can you make potato salad?

You can make potato salad up to a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.

Can you boil potatoes ahead of time for potato salad?

Yes, you can boil the potatoes ahead of time for potato salad. Just be sure to cool them completely before adding them to the other ingredients. You can also store the boiled potatoes in the refrigerator for a day or two before making the salad.

Can you make potato salad without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can make potato salad without mayonnaise. Consider using a vinaigrette or sour cream-based dressing instead. You can also add other flavorful ingredients like mustard, vinegar, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor of the salad.

Can I Freeze Potato Salad

Potato salad is not a great candidate for freezing, as it tends to lose its texture and flavor when thawed. It’s best to enjoy potato salad fresh or store it in the refrigerator for a few days.

How to Keep Potato Salad from Getting Watery

One way to prevent potato salad from becoming too watery is to rinse the cooked potatoes with cold water before adding the dressing.

This helps to remove excess starch that can make the salad watery. Additionally, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the pickles or other vegetables you add to the salad.

More Summer Side Dishes

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad … the BEST potato salad ever.

Bacon Ranch and Pea Salad – the perfect summery side dish. SO GOOOD!

Cucumber, Tomato, Avocado Salad – It is very easy to prepare and the family loves it!