This creamy potato salad is a classic dish that everyone loves. With tender potatoes mixed with sweet pickles and a touch of mayonnaise, it’s perfect for picnics or BBQs!
I can’t help but go back for seconds of this potato salad. It’s so easy to make, too—I just boil, mix, and chill. Grab a fork and enjoy—no fancy stuff needed! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: Use these for their smooth texture. If red potatoes aren’t available, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative. They mash well and add a creamy feel.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These give the salad its creamy base. If you prefer lighter options, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or low-fat mayo. You can mix and match as per your taste!
Sweet Pickle Relish: This adds a hint of sweetness. If you’d like more tang, diced dill pickles work beautifully, or even a tablespoon of pickle juice for a zesty kick.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: They add richness. If you’re vegan, you can skip them or replace them with diced avocado for creaminess without the eggs.
How Do I Cook Potatoes Perfectly for Potato Salad?
Cooking potatoes right is key to a great potato salad. Follow these simple steps to avoid mushy potatoes.
- Start with cold water when boiling potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle in a bit of salt when the water is cold; it enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
- Once they’re fork-tender, drain them immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Let them cool slightly before adding your other ingredients to keep them intact.
Easy Paula Deen Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious potato salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for chilling in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes until you can enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the quartered red potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold salted water to ensure they cook evenly. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are tender when poked with a fork, which should take about 12–15 minutes. Once they are done, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
While the potatoes are cooling, grab a large bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and mustard if you’re using it. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Once the potatoes have cooled a bit, gently fold them into the bowl with the dressing. Carefully add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped celery, and the chopped green onions. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully! When you’re ready to serve it, dish out the potato salad as a refreshing side at your next meal, cookout, or family gathering. Enjoy your delicious homemade potato salad!
FAQ for Easy Paula Deen Potato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are perfect for their creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that Russet potatoes may break down more easily, so handle them gently.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can definitely make potato salad in advance! Prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, and it will still taste fresh!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, freeze the salad for up to 1 month, but be aware that the texture may change upon thawing.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning or Add Additional Ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add extras like diced bell peppers, chopped herbs, or even bacon for extra flavor. Experimenting is a great way to make this salad your own!
