Classic Potato Salad Recipe for the Fourth of July
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This Classic Potato Salad Recipe is the creamy, comforting side dish every Fourth of July celebration needs!
Loaded with tender potatoes, chopped hard-boiled eggs, crisp red onion, and a creamy Dijon dressing, this all-American favorite is always one of the first bowls to disappear at BBQs and picnics. It’s easy to make ahead, making it perfect for Independence Day celebrations, potlucks, and backyard gatherings all summer long.
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Why You’ll Love This Classic Potato Salad Recipe
- Creamy, tangy, and packed with classic flavors everyone knows and loves.
- It’s an easy make-ahead side dish that tastes even better after chilling.
- Perfect for serving alongside burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, and BBQ favorites.
- Uses simple pantry staples and everyday ingredients.
- A must-have addition to your Fourth of July menu or any summer picnic spread.
Need more summer sides for your gathering? Check out our collection of Side Dish Recipes.
Pair This Potato Salad With…
No Fourth of July BBQ is complete with just one side! Pair this creamy potato salad with classic grilled favorites, refreshing drinks, and festive desserts.
Choosing the Best Potatoes for Potato Salad
The secret to a great potato salad starts with the potatoes!
Choose waxy potatoes, which stay firm after boiling and won’t fall apart when mixed with the dressing. Yukon Gold and red potatoes are popular choices in the USA, while Charlotte potatoes, baby potatoes, and Jersey Royals are excellent options in the UK.
Save the floury varieties like Russets, Maris Piper, or King Edward for mashed potatoes instead.
How Do I Make Classic Potato Salad?
Check out the recipe card below—you can print or save it for later. Please leave a review and a star rating!
Classic Potato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 pounds waxy potatoes see notes
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 hard-boiled eggs chopped
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
SUGGESTED PRODUCTS
- 1 large mixing bowl
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes, cut into evenly sized chunks, and place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooked potatoes, chopped eggs, and red onion to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated without breaking them up too much.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the flavors have time to develop.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving. Serve and Happy Fourth of July!
Notes
Tips
- Waxy potatoes hold their shape best after boiling, making them ideal for potato salad.
- Great choices include Yukon Gold or red potatoes in the USA, and Charlotte potatoes, baby potatoes, Jersey Royals (when in season), or other waxy varieties in the UK.
- Avoid floury potatoes like Russet (USA) or Maris Piper and King Edward (UK), as they tend to fall apart and create a mushy salad.
- Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before mixing so they don’t absorb too much dressing.
- Yukon Gold potatoes stay creamy while holding their shape beautifully.
- Prepare the salad a day ahead for even better flavor.
Substitutions
- Swap Dijon mustard for yellow mustard for a more traditional flavor.
- Add chopped celery or dill pickles for extra crunch.
- Fresh chives make a great alternative garnish.
Leftovers
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Stir gently before serving again if any dressing has settled.
- Do not leave potato salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour in hot weather.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is always approximate and will depend on the quality of ingredients used and serving sizes. If you need exact calories and macros, please do your own calculations.
Make This Classic Potato Salad for Your Fourth of July Celebration!
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic basket, or heading to a neighborhood potluck, this creamy potato salad is always a welcome addition to the table. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and pairs perfectly with all your favorite summer dishes.
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