Best Foods Potato Salad Recipe : The Creamiest Classic Ever!

Craving a creamy, flavorful side dish that never goes out of style? My Best Foods Potato Salad Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Made with tender potatoes, crunchy celery, fresh onion, hard-boiled eggs, and a smooth, tangy dressing featuring Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise, this dish is perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners. With its classic taste and creamy texture, this potato salad is sure to become a staple at your table.

Potato Preparation

Cooking the potatoes just right is the key to the perfect creamy potato salad. Follow these steps for the best results:

Boiling the Potatoes

1. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water.
   
2. Add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning.
   
3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
   
4. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.
   

Cooling the Potatoes

Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for at least 10 minutes. This prevents the salad from becoming watery when you add the dressing.

Dressing Preparation

The creamy, tangy dressing is what makes this potato salad so irresistible.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   
   • 1 cup Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise
     
   • 2 tablespoons vinegar
     
   • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
     
   • 1 teaspoon sugar
     
   • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
     
2. Mix until smooth and well-blended. This simple yet flavorful dressing is the perfect base for the salad.

Mixing the Potato Salad

Now comes the fun part, bringing it all together!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, celery, onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
   
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture.
   
3. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold everything together until well coated.

Serving and Presentation

This potato salad shines as the ultimate side dish. Whether you’re firing up the grill or planning a casual family dinner, it pairs beautifully with just about anything.

• Chill Before Serving: For the best flavour, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the potatoes, enhancing the overall taste.
  
• Serving Ideas: Serve alongside BBQ chicken, grilled burgers, hot dogs, or even roasted fish for a balanced summer meal.
  
• Garnish Tip: Sprinkle a little paprika or freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for a pop of colour and extra flavour.

Flavor Variations

Want to put your own twist on this classic recipe? Try these simple variations:

• Mustard Potato Salad: Add 1–2 teaspoons of yellow mustard or Dijon mustard to the dressing for a tangy kick.
  
• Pickle Lover’s Version: Stir in ½ cup chopped dill pickles or sweet relish for extra crunch and zesty flavour
  
• Bacon Potato Salad: Fold in crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
  
• Herb Upgrade: Fresh dill, chives, or parsley can be mixed into the salad for a fresh, aromatic note.

Expert Tips for the Best Potato Salad

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes) hold their shape better than starchy ones (like Russet).
   
2. Cool Potatoes Before Mixing: Prevents the dressing from becoming runny.
   
3. Make Ahead: Potato salad tastes even better the next day once the flavours have fully developed.
   
4. Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as mayonnaise doesn’t thaw well.

Storage Instructions

Keeping Potato Salad Fresh

After preparing, store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Always keep it chilled to maintain its creamy texture and safe serving quality.

Can You Freeze Potato Salad?

It’s best not to freeze potato salad because mayonnaise tends to separate when thawed, resulting in a watery, grainy texture. If you’d like to make it ahead, prepare the potatoes and eggs in advance, then mix with the dressing right before serving for a fresher flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What type of potatoes are best for potato salad?

I recommend Yukon Gold or red potatoes because they’re waxy and hold their shape well after boiling. Russet potatoes can work, but they tend to be more starchy and may fall apart when mixed.

2. Can I make potato salad ahead of time?

Yes! Potato salad actually tastes better the next day because the flavours have more time to blend. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

3. How long does homemade potato salad last?

Homemade potato salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Always keep it chilled and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

4. Can I add mustard to this potato salad?

Absolutely! Stirring in 1–2 teaspoons of yellow mustard or Dijon mustard gives the salad a tangy twist and makes it more flavorful.

5. Can you freeze potato salad with mayonnaise?

I don’t recommend freezing potato salad because mayonnaise tends to separate once thawed, resulting in a watery texture. For best results, prepare it fresh and refrigerate any leftovers.

6. How do I keep potato salad from getting watery?

Make sure to drain and cool the potatoes completely before mixing in the dressing. This prevents excess moisture from diluting the creamy texture.

7. What can I serve with potato salad?

Potato salad pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken, grilled burgers, steak, fish, or hot dogs. It’s the ultimate side dish for summer cookouts and family meals.

Conclusion

Mastering this Best Foods Potato Salad Recipe is easier than you think. With tender potatoes, crunchy vegetables, creamy mayo, and a perfectly balanced tangy dressing, it’s the kind of side dish that brings everyone back for seconds.

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, heading to a picnic, or simply craving a comforting homemade dish, this potato salad is guaranteed to impress. And the best part? You can easily customize it with your favourite add-ins like pickles, mustard, or bacon.

So grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and let your family and friends enjoy the creamy, classic goodness of homemade potato salad. Once you try this version, it’ll become your go-to recipe every time!