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Easy Southern Potato Salad

A classic creamy potato salad with tangy flavors, perfect for cookouts and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cubed; about 7-8 medium-sized potatoes)
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 4 pieces hard-boiled eggs (peeled and chopped)
  • 1/2 cup hamburger dill pickles (chopped)
  • 2 Tbsp hamburger dill pickle juice
  • 1/2 cup Vidalia or sweet yellow onion (finely minced or grated)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Dukes or Hellman's) For authentic Southern taste
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt For seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 dash paprika For garnish

Method
 

Cooking Potatoes
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, add in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt along with the cubed potatoes.
  3. Cook them for about 10 minutes.
  4. Check for doneness by mashing a piece with a fork. If it breaks apart easily, the potatoes are ready! Drain them in a colander.
  5. Return the drained potatoes to the pot, and lightly mash them 3-4 times using a potato masher.
Preparing the Dressing
  1. While your potatoes are cooking, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, onion, dill pickles, pickle juice, and chopped hard-boiled eggs in a large bowl.
  2. Season with the remaining salt and pepper, and mix until well-combined.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add the warm, lightly mashed potatoes to the dressing mixture, gently folding them in without completely mashing them.
  2. Garnish with a light sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Chilling
  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

Notes

Serve chilled on a large platter or in a vibrant bowl. Pairs well with barbecued ribs, grilled chicken, or a hearty burger. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Avoid freezing as it may alter the creamy texture.