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Classic potato salad in a white bowl with a spoon, served on a yellow napkin

Classic Potato Salad: A Deliciously Simple Side

A timeless classic, this potato salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it's a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and flavor to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • large pot
  • small bowl
  • large bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2-2 pounds red potatoes Use waxy varieties like red, Yukon Gold, Fingerling, or New potatoes. Ensure potatoes are cut to roughly the same size for even cooking.
  • 3-4 hard boiled eggs
  • ½ cup celery chopped
  • ½ cup onion finely chopped
  • cup mayonnaise Sugar can be omitted if Miracle Whip is used instead of mayonnaise.
  • 1 Tablespoon milk
  • 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Boil potatoes in cold water for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water, then cool completely. Prepare hard-boiled eggs.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
  • Chop the cooled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces.
  • Combine the chopped ingredients in a large bowl and pour the dressing over. Mix gently until evenly coated.
  • Taste and adjust salt or pepper if necessary. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Storage

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.

Notes

Use waxy potato varieties such as red, Yukon Gold, Fingerling, or New potatoes to maintain shape; starchy potatoes like russets may fall apart. Ensure potatoes are cut to roughly the same size for even cooking. The salad is best served after chilling for at least 1 hour.
Keyword classic potato salad, easy potato salad, potato salad recipe, simple side dish