Dinner

The Best Creamy Classic Potato Salad Recipe

ByClara Bennett July 17, 2026July 17, 2026

Introduction

This creamy classic potato salad is a timeless side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. Made with tender russet potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a tangy, flavorful dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

A close-up view of a white rectangular dish filled with a creamy, textured potato salad. The salad has a pale yellow and off-white color with visible small chunks, likely bits of potato and celery. It is garnished with fine green herbs scattered over the top and a sprinkling of reddish-orange paprika, adding color contrast. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with a checkered cloth partially visible underneath. The texture of the salad looks rich and slightly lumpy, giving it a fresh, homemade feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8-9 Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
½ tbsp. salt
3 celery hearts, diced
5 hard boiled eggs, diced
1 tsp. garlic, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
2 ½ tbsp. yellow mustard
½ cup sweet relish
1 ½ tsp. apple cider vinegar
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. seasoned salt
½ tsp. smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Fill a large pot with water and add ½ tablespoon of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the diced potatoes. Cook for about 25 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes in a strainer and rinse under cold water for about five minutes. Let them sit in the strainer for 10 to 15 minutes to cool and drain completely.
Step 3: Transfer the cooled potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced celery, chopped garlic, diced hard boiled eggs, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sweet relish, and apple cider vinegar. Gently fold the ingredients together until combined.
Step 4: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, and smoked paprika. Toss lightly once more to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 5: Garnish with additional smoked paprika and dried parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a tangier flavor, add a bit more apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Use red potatoes instead of Russet for a firmer texture and colorful appearance.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives for a fresh twist.

Storage

Store leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.