My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe

There’s something extra special about recipes passed down through generations, and My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe is a true family treasure. Creamy, tangy, and brimming with crisp veggies and tender potatoes, this is the potato salad everyone asks for at picnics, potlucks, and family barbecues. One bite of this comforting side, and you’ll be transported right back to Grandma’s cozy kitchen!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients are the secret to My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe. Every element plays an important role in creating the best texture and flavor—don’t skip any, because they each bring something special to the table.

• Yukon Gold potatoes: Their golden flesh is buttery and tender but holds its shape beautifully when boiled—plus, no need to peel before cooking!
• Kosher salt: Used when boiling potatoes and in the dressing, it helps boost every flavor note in the salad.
• White vinegar: Tossed with the warm potatoes, it infuses them with subtle tang and brightness.
• Celery stalks: Dice them for a fresh crunch and a burst of grassy flavor in every bite.
• Green onions: Milder than regular onions, they add a gentle bite and gorgeous green color.
• Hard-boiled eggs: These bring a creamy, rich texture and lovely yellow-and-white color—plus, Grandma always added extra for the topping!
• Miracle Whip (or mayonnaise): Miracle Whip gives that childhood-sweet creamy tang, but classic mayo works perfectly if you prefer a savory touch.
• Yellow mustard: Just a spoonful gives the salad its sunshine-yellow color and a spark of zippy flavor.
• Celery seed: These tiny aromatic seeds are the not-so-secret ingredient for “that” old-school flavor.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a pleasant bite and subtle warmth to the salad.
• Paprika: A sprinkle on top gives a pop of color and just a hint of smoky warmth.

Variations

Potato salad is the ultimate blank canvas—it’s so easy to make this recipe your own. Try different veggies, swap the dressing base, or amp up the spices to match your tastes and dietary needs!

• Swap the mayo: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of Miracle Whip for a tangy, lighter twist.
• Add pickles: Stir in chopped dill pickles or sweet relish for extra zip and crunch.
• Veggie-packed: Toss in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even crisp radishes to boost color and nutrition.
• Herb it up: Add a flurry of fresh dill, parsley, or chives for summery flavor and bright green flecks.
• No eggs: If you’re serving someone who avoids eggs, just skip them—the salad will still be delicious!

How to Make My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Boil and Cool the Potatoes

Start by placing the whole Yukon Gold potatoes in a big pot filled with cold water—this ensures even cooking. Sprinkle in a teaspoon of kosher salt for maximum flavor, bring them to a boil, then let them gently simmer until fork-tender. This usually takes 30–35 minutes. Once done, drain and let them cool so you can handle them easily (and not burn your hands!).

Step 2: Peel, Cube & Dress the Potatoes

Slip the skins off the cooled potatoes—it’s so easy after boiling, you might just find it satisfying! Cut them into bite-sized cubes (about ½” to ¾” each) and toss them into a big mixing bowl. While they’re still a little warm, sprinkle on the white vinegar and gently toss so every piece soaks up that bright tang. Let the potatoes cool while you prep the rest.

Step 3: Add Veggies & Eggs

Add the diced celery and green onions right into the potato bowl—this is where the crunch and pop of color come in! Chop four of your hard-boiled eggs and stir them in gently, reserving the last one for a gorgeous sliced topping.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Miracle Whip, yellow mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper. This is the flavor powerhouse of My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe. Once smooth and dreamy, add it to your potato mixture and fold gently—just enough to coat everything without mashing the potatoes.

Step 5: Top, Chill & Serve

Arrange the last hard-boiled egg in thin slices across the top for that old-school touch, then dust with a little paprika. Pop the bowl in the fridge for at least an hour (or overnight, if you can stand the wait!). The flavors meld and become absolutely irresistible. Serve cold for best results.

How to Serve My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For the most classic look, layer slices of hard-boiled egg on top and finish with a generous sprinkling of bright red paprika. A pop of fresh parsley or snipped chives can add color and a fresh, herby burst that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This crowd-pleaser loves a backyard barbecue! Serve it next to grilled burgers, crispy fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or smoky sausages. It also makes an amazing pairing with sandwiches and fresh watermelon at summer picnics.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe in individual jars or lettuce cups for portion-perfect picnic fare. It also looks gorgeous mounded high in a vintage glass bowl for a retro touch at parties. If you want to get fancy, arrange extra slices of egg and sprigs of dill artfully on top—it’ll be the centerpiece of your spread!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any extras in an airtight container and tuck them in the fridge—they’ll keep for up to three days. Give the salad a gentle toss before serving again, and always use clean utensils to keep it fresh.

Freezing

Unfortunately, potato salad doesn’t freeze well—the texture of the potatoes and creamy dressing just doesn’t recover after thawing. For best results, enjoy My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe straight from the fridge and prep what you’ll eat within a few days.

Reheating

This potato salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. If it’s been chilling for a while, just let it sit out for 15 minutes before serving for the best creamy texture and flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Nothing brings people together quite like My Grandma’s Classic Potato Salad Recipe. It’s proof that simple ingredients and a little bit of love create the most memorable dishes. I hope your family enjoys it as much as mine does—don’t wait for a holiday or special occasion to give it a spot on your table!

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