Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Egg and Pickles: Creamy Recipe

There’s something timeless about a bowl of old-fashioned potato salad. It’s the kind of dish that shows up at every cookout, potluck, and picnic—and for good reason. This salad isn’t trying to be trendy or flashy. It’s simply delicious. The kind of delicious that reminds you of summer afternoons, paper plates, lawn chairs, and those soft golden hours when food and laughter seemed endless.

This particular version of potato salad has become my go-to over the years for one big reason: it never fails to impress. It’s got everything you want in a classic potato salad—soft, tender potatoes, creamy dressing, tangy pickles, just the right amount of crunch from celery, and the subtle richness from hard-boiled eggs. The dressing brings it all together with a perfect blend of mayonnaise, buttermilk, yellow mustard, and a splash of pickle juice. And those mashed egg yolks folded into the dressing? They take the flavor to the next level.

I first made this salad for a Fourth of July barbecue a few years ago, and it was gone before the grilled meats hit the table. My aunt, who is famously picky about potato salad (we’re talking a decades-long loyalty to her own recipe), actually asked for seconds—and then the recipe. That’s when I knew this one was a keeper.

Another reason I love this dish is how well it fits into so many kinds of meals. It’s hearty enough to stand alone with a slice of bread, yet it’s also the ultimate sidekick for roasted chicken or grilled beef. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, which makes hosting a breeze. Letting it chill in the fridge only deepens the flavors.

So, whether you’re looking for something to bring to a family gathering or just craving a taste of something classic, this creamy old-fashioned potato salad with eggs and pickles might just become a staple in your own kitchen too.

Why You’ll Love This Old-fashioned potato salad Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Old-fashioned potato salad deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a handful of basic steps, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. You don’t need fancy tools or gourmet skills—just a big pot, a mixing bowl, and a spoon.

What sets this salad apart is its balance. The potatoes are fork-tender without being mushy. The chopped hard-boiled eggs add a delicate richness, while the pickles and celery bring a tangy crunch that wakes up every bite. The red onion adds just a touch of sharpness, and the creamy dressing ties it all together with that classic, comforting taste we all know and love.

Another reason to love this salad is its flexibility. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or cold from the fridge. It travels well, holds up beautifully on buffet tables, and actually tastes better after a few hours of chilling. That makes it perfect for meal prepping or making the night before a big event.

It’s also a family-friendly dish. Kids tend to love the creamy texture and mild flavors, while adults appreciate the subtle tang and satisfying bite. And if you’re feeding a crowd with mixed dietary needs, this salad can be easily adjusted. It’s naturally gluten-free, and you can substitute dairy-free mayo or buttermilk if needed.

Finally, this potato salad brings people together. There’s something about it that sparks conversations and shared memories. It’s not just a side dish—it’s a reminder of simpler times, of family reunions and Sunday dinners. It’s a bowl full of nostalgia, and every time I serve it, I see smiles and empty plates.

Health Benefits of this Old-fashioned potato salad

Potato salad may not always be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of “healthy,” but this homemade version has several nutritional benefits that make it a smarter choice than many store-bought varieties.

First, let’s talk about the potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining proper muscle function. They also contain fiber, especially when the skins are left on or partially removed, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer.

Eggs are another nutritional powerhouse in this recipe. Not only do they add protein, which helps with muscle repair and energy, but their yolks are rich in vitamins like B12, D, and choline—a nutrient that’s essential for brain health and cell structure. The egg whites provide lean protein without added fat, making the salad more balanced.

The addition of celery and red onion brings even more value to the table. Celery is low in calories and high in water content, which can help with hydration and digestion. Red onions, meanwhile, contain antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health.

The dressing, while rich and creamy, can be tailored to suit different health needs. For example, using avocado oil-based mayonnaise or a lower-fat version can reduce saturated fat content. Buttermilk adds a touch of tang and creaminess without the need for extra heavy cream, and mustard brings flavor with very few calories.

Another hidden health perk? Making your own salad means you’re in control of the sodium levels. Many store-bought potato salads are packed with salt and preservatives. When you make it at home, you can season it just the way you like it, using natural ingredients and fresh herbs to boost flavor without relying on excess salt.

So while this dish is definitely a comfort food, it also provides a nourishing, well-rounded option when prepared mindfully. It’s all about balance—and this recipe delivers just that.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Knowing how much time you’ll need and what kind of nutritional value you’re getting is key when deciding whether a recipe fits into your day or your lifestyle. Fortunately, this creamy old-fashioned potato salad is both manageable and worthwhile, whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a weeknight dinner side, or a weekend barbecue.

Preparation Time:

  • Boiling and steaming potatoes: 15–25 minutes
  • Egg boiling and cooling: 10–12 minutes
  • Chopping and mixing ingredients: 15 minutes
  • Chill time (recommended): 2–4 hours for best flavor (optional, but encouraged)

Total active prep time clocks in at about 30–40 minutes, and then you can let it chill in the fridge while you move on with your day.

Servings:

This recipe yields approximately 8 hearty servings, or 10–12 smaller side portions. It’s perfect for feeding a family, or bringing to a potluck with plenty to share.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Please note these are approximate values based on standard ingredients. Nutritional content may vary depending on exact brands or substitutions used.

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg

Despite its creamy richness, this potato salad can be considered reasonably balanced—especially when enjoyed as part of a larger meal with lean proteins and fresh vegetables. If you’re watching sodium or fat content, you can adjust the dressing ingredients accordingly or portion it as a side.

The bottom line? It’s a satisfying dish that fits into everyday eating without requiring a total nutrition overhaul. And with most of the work done in under an hour, it’s also very doable on a busy day.

Ingredients List

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this irresistibly creamy and flavorful Old-fashioned potato salad. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store, which makes this recipe extra convenient.

For the Salad:

  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
    These are the stars of the show. Yukon Golds are buttery, slightly sweet, and have a creamy texture that holds up beautifully in potato salad. Their thin skins are easy to peel after boiling, and they absorb flavor well without falling apart.
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs
    The eggs bring richness and a bit of protein. We’ll be separating the yolks and whites—the yolks get mashed into the dressing for creaminess, while the whites are chopped and folded into the salad.
  • 2 dill pickles (finely chopped) + a splash of pickle juice
    These give the salad a zesty, tangy kick that brightens the flavor. The pickle juice adds acidity and helps balance the creaminess of the dressing.
  • 2 ribs celery (chopped)
    Celery brings a crisp crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft potatoes. It also adds a refreshing, clean taste.
  • ¼ cup red onion (chopped)
    Red onions add a bit of sharpness and color. You can soak them in water for a few minutes before adding if you want to tone down their bite.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    Seasoning is key. Start light, taste as you go, and adjust as needed to bring out the full flavor of the ingredients.

For the Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    This is the creamy base that ties everything together. Use a good-quality mayo for the best flavor.
  • ¼ cup buttermilk
    Buttermilk adds a slight tang and thins out the mayo just enough to coat the potatoes without becoming overly thick or heavy.
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (or half Dijon)
    Mustard adds sharpness and depth. Yellow mustard gives it a classic taste, but Dijon brings a slightly more refined flavor. You can use a mix of both.
  • Mashed egg yolks from the boiled eggs
    This secret ingredient adds creaminess, richness, and depth to the dressing. It also helps emulsify the mixture for a smooth texture.

With all these ingredients combined, you get a Old-fashioned potato salad that’s creamy, tangy, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned—every bite layered with comforting flavor and satisfying texture.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to bring this Old-fashioned potato salad to life. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking—this recipe is totally beginner-friendly, and I’ll walk you through each step with helpful tips to keep things smooth and stress-free. Let’s dive into the process, one step at a time.

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

  • Wash and prep: Start by giving your Yukon Gold potatoes a good rinse. Since we’re boiling them with the skins on, it’s important to clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt. You don’t need to peel them yet—that comes later.
  • Boil until fork-tender: Place the whole potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, which will help flavor the potatoes from the inside out. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat slightly and let the potatoes cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of your potatoes, so start checking around the 10-minute mark. Insert a fork into one of the larger ones—if it slides in easily without resistance, they’re ready.
  • Drain and steam: Once tender, carefully drain the potatoes in a colander. Then return them to the pot, cover with a lid, and let them steam for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the potatoes dry out a bit, which allows them to better absorb the dressing later on and prevents sogginess.

Step 2: Hard-Boil the Eggs

  • Cook the eggs: While the potatoes are boiling or steaming, bring a small saucepan of water to a boil. Gently lower in the eggs and let them boil for 10 to 12 minutes.
  • Cool and peel: After boiling, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This not only stops the cooking but also makes peeling much easier. Once cooled, peel the eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. Set both aside in separate bowls.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

  • Mash the yolks: Take the egg yolks and mash them thoroughly with a fork until smooth. These will add a velvety richness to the dressing.
  • Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine the mashed yolks with 1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup buttermilk, and 2 tablespoons mustard. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  • Add flavor boosters: Stir in a splash (about 1–2 teaspoons) of pickle juice, a bit of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a tangier salad, add a touch more mustard or pickle juice.

Step 4: Peel and Chop the Potatoes

  • Peel the skins: Once the steamed potatoes have cooled slightly, use your hands or a small paring knife to gently remove the skins. Yukon Gold potatoes have thin, tender skins that are easy to peel once cooked.
  • Cut into chunks: Chop the potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size so they mix evenly with the dressing and don’t break down too much when stirred.

Step 5: Combine Potatoes with Dressing

  • Fold gently: Place the chopped potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold to combine, using a large spoon or spatula. Take your time here—you want the potatoes to be well coated, but not mashed.
  • Let them sit: At this stage, it’s a good idea to let the potatoes sit for about 10 minutes. This gives them time to absorb the flavors of the dressing while still warm, which deepens the overall taste of the salad.

Step 6: Add the Remaining Ingredients

  • Chop egg whites: Take the egg whites you set aside earlier and dice them into small pieces. They’ll add texture and protein to the salad.
  • Chop celery, onion, and pickles: Finely dice 2 celery ribs, ¼ cup red onion, and 2 dill pickles. The goal is to keep the pieces small so they blend nicely with the potatoes.
  • Stir it all together: Add the chopped egg whites, celery, onion, and pickles to the potato and dressing mixture. Fold everything together gently, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Don’t overmix—stir just until combined.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

  • Cover and refrigerate: Transfer the salad to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight if you have time. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld together, giving the salad that signature old-fashioned taste.
  • Taste again before serving: Just before serving, give the salad one final taste. Sometimes it needs a touch more salt or a little extra pickle juice to perk it up after chilling.

And that’s it! You’ve just made a bowl of creamy, dreamy potato salad that’s full of texture, flavor, and classic comfort. It’s ready to be the star side dish at your next meal or gathering.

Old-fashioned potato salad

How to Serve this Old-fashioned potato salad

This Old-fashioned potato salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be the perfect accompaniment to almost any main dish, and it even works beautifully as a light meal on its own. Here are a few tried-and-true ways to serve it, whether you’re hosting a big barbecue or just prepping dinner for the family.

First and foremost, it’s a classic side dish for grilled or roasted meats. Pair it with juicy grilled chicken, barbecue turkey burgers, or a slow-roasted beef brisket. The creamy texture of the potato salad contrasts wonderfully with smoky or char-grilled proteins, making it a natural match for outdoor dining.

If you’re serving it indoors, it also holds up well with roasted chicken, baked drumsticks, or even a simple turkey meatloaf. It adds comfort and richness without stealing the show from your main dish.

For a lighter meal, try scooping the potato salad onto a bed of mixed greens or arugula. The creamy dressing doubles as a sort of dressing for the greens, giving you a satisfying salad combo that doesn’t feel like you’re missing out.

It also pairs well with sandwiches—especially turkey, roast beef, or grilled vegetable paninis. Serve it on the side with some crunchy pickles or fresh fruit for a complete lunch.

If you’re going the picnic or potluck route, serve it straight from the chilled container or transfer it into a serving bowl topped with a light sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or paprika for color.

Whether you enjoy it straight from the fridge or let it come closer to room temperature before serving, this salad shines in almost any setting. It’s hearty, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right pairings can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable. This creamy potato salad is versatile enough to match with a wide range of dishes, so you have plenty of options whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, weekend cookout, or casual picnic.

Main Dish Pairings:

  • Grilled Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: The smoky, juicy flavor of grilled chicken balances the creaminess of the salad. Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne to your chicken for a gentle heat that contrasts with the tangy pickles.
  • Roasted or Smoked Turkey Breast: Turkey and potato salad go hand in hand, especially when served with fresh greens and a drizzle of olive oil on the side.
  • Shredded BBQ Chicken or Beef: A slightly sweet barbecue sauce adds a bold kick to your plate, and the creamy salad mellows it out with its rich, tangy base.
  • Grilled or Baked Salmon: For a lighter option, try serving the salad with flaky, well-seasoned salmon. The potatoes and eggs provide satisfying heft, while the fish adds a clean, elegant flavor.

Side Dish Pairings:

  • Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn with a touch of butter and salt makes an excellent sidekick to this salad.
  • Green Beans Almondine: A light vegetable side with crunch and citrus can balance the richness of the potato salad.
  • Tomato Cucumber Salad: A fresh, acidic salad can cut through the creaminess and refresh the palate between bites.

Beverage Pairings:

  • Iced Herbal Tea: Try mint or chamomile with lemon for a cooling, caffeine-free option that complements the salad’s richness.
  • Lemon Sparkling Water: A bubbly, citrusy beverage helps refresh your taste buds between bites.
  • Pomegranate Juice Spritzers: Slightly tart and sweet, this drink adds a fruity brightness that plays nicely with the creamy, tangy salad flavors.

Whether you’re planning a full spread or just whipping up a quick lunch, this potato salad fits in beautifully with a range of dishes and drinks. It’s the kind of versatile recipe that adapts to whatever’s on the table.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made this delicious Old-fashioned potato salad, you’ll probably be wondering how best to store it—or if you can freeze it to enjoy later. The good news is that this dish is wonderfully make-ahead friendly and stores well when handled properly. That said, it’s not the ideal candidate for freezing, so let’s explore all your options to make sure those leftovers stay fresh and tasty.

Storing in the Refrigerator:

After preparing your potato salad, transfer it into an airtight container or tightly cover your serving bowl with plastic wrap. It’s important to keep the salad sealed well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. When stored correctly, the potato salad will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.

It’s actually even better after the first day because the flavors have more time to blend together. You’ll notice that the pickles, celery, onion, and mustard become more pronounced after a night in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and check if it needs a little salt or pepper refresh.

Can You Freeze Potato Salad?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Freezing creamy potato salad can significantly affect its texture. Mayonnaise doesn’t freeze well and tends to separate when thawed, resulting in a watery, grainy consistency that doesn’t do justice to the original dish. The potatoes can also become mealy or mushy after being frozen and thawed.

If you must freeze it (say, you made a double batch and don’t want to waste any), try placing it in a freezer-safe container and using it within 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and stir vigorously before serving. Be prepared for a slight change in texture.

Reheating Instructions:

Old-fashioned potato salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer to warm it slightly (especially on a colder day), there’s a gentle way to do that.

Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on low power in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until just warmed through. Don’t overheat—it’s not meant to be hot, just slightly warm if that’s your preference. Avoid high heat, which can cause the dressing to separate.

Alternatively, let it sit out at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before serving if it’s coming straight from the fridge and you prefer a less-cold bite.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your potato salad—whether you’re prepping it ahead for a party or enjoying leftovers after a big family meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Old-fashioned potato salad is a relatively simple dish, there are a few common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Luckily, all of these are easy to avoid once you know what to watch out for.

1. Overcooking or Undercooking the Potatoes

Getting the texture of your potatoes just right is key. If you overcook them, they’ll fall apart and turn your salad into mashed potatoes. If you undercook them, they’ll be firm and unpleasantly chewy. The sweet spot is fork-tender—you should be able to pierce them easily with a fork, but they shouldn’t be falling apart.

2. Not Steaming the Potatoes After Draining

This extra step may seem small, but it makes a big difference. Letting the potatoes steam in the pot (with the lid on) for 5–10 minutes after draining allows excess moisture to evaporate. This helps prevent a watery salad and lets the dressing cling better to the potatoes.

3. Adding the Dressing to Cold Potatoes

Warm potatoes absorb flavors better than cold ones. If you wait too long to dress them, the potatoes might not soak up as much of that delicious dressing. It’s best to toss them with the dressing while they’re still slightly warm.

4. Overmixing the Salad

When you’re combining the potatoes, dressing, and mix-ins, it’s important to be gentle. Overmixing can cause the potatoes to break apart and the texture to become mushy. Use a large spoon or spatula and fold everything together with care.

5. Forgetting to Chill the Salad

This is a big one. Potato salad needs time in the fridge to reach its peak flavor. At least 2 hours, ideally 4 or more. Skipping this step can leave you with a salad that tastes flat and underdeveloped. Letting it chill allows all the flavors to blend and mellow into something truly delicious.

6. Overseasoning Early On

Because flavors intensify as the salad sits, it’s a good idea to season conservatively at first. After chilling, give it a final taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

By being mindful of these common missteps, you’ll be on your way to a perfectly creamy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing potato salad every single time.

Pro Tips

If you want to take your Old-fashioned potato salad from good to absolutely unforgettable, here are some pro tips to help you along the way. These little tricks come from years of testing, tweaking, and making this recipe for just about every kind of gathering.

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

Yukon Golds are ideal because they strike the perfect balance between waxy and starchy. They hold their shape well after boiling and offer a naturally buttery flavor. Avoid russets—they’re too starchy and tend to fall apart.

2. Don’t Skip the Pickle Juice

That splash of pickle juice in the dressing may seem like a throwaway ingredient, but it adds a pop of acidity and tang that balances the richness of the mayo and egg yolks. You can even add a little extra if you like a punchier flavor.

3. Mash the Egg Yolks Into the Dressing

This is a total game-changer. Instead of just chopping the hard-boiled eggs and tossing them in, mashing the yolks into the dressing creates a richer, smoother texture and subtly deepens the flavor of the entire salad.

4. Soften the Red Onions

If your red onions are a bit too sharp, soak them in a small bowl of cold water for 10 minutes before adding to the salad. This helps mellow their bite while keeping their color and crunch intact.

5. Let It Sit Overnight

If time allows, make your salad the day before you plan to serve it. An overnight rest in the fridge allows the flavors to fully come together and results in a salad that tastes even better the next day.

6. Use Fresh Herbs

While optional, adding a bit of chopped fresh parsley, dill, or chives right before serving can brighten the entire dish and add a pop of color. Fresh herbs elevate the look and flavor of this classic comfort food.

These pro tips will help you create a potato salad that tastes like it came straight from a beloved family recipe box. It’s all about the small details that make a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions? You’re not alone. Here are some of the most common potato salad questions I get—answered in detail to help you feel confident every step of the way.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely. While Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy texture and flavor, you can also use red potatoes or baby potatoes. Just avoid russet potatoes—they tend to break down too easily after boiling and can lead to a mushy salad.

Can I make potato salad ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s actually encouraged! Potato salad tastes best after a few hours of chilling, so making it the night before is a great idea. Just give it a good stir before serving and check if it needs a pinch more salt or a splash of pickle juice.

How long does potato salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this potato salad will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep it cold and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, for a lighter version, you can substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It will give the salad a slightly tangier taste and cut down on calories and fat. Just note that the texture will be a bit different.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No problem. You can make a quick substitute by adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ¼ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and you’ve got a makeshift buttermilk that works just fine in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this potato salad are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check your mayonnaise and mustard labels to avoid any unexpected additives if you’re cooking for someone with a gluten sensitivity.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, simply replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk (like almond or soy) mixed with a bit of lemon juice to mimic that tang. Also, be sure your mayonnaise is dairy-free—most are, but it never hurts to check.

Can I leave out the eggs?

You can, but the flavor and texture will change. The mashed yolks add creaminess to the dressing, and the whites add a nice textural contrast. If you have an egg allergy or dietary restriction, just skip the eggs and increase the celery and pickles for more texture.

How do I keep my potato salad from getting watery?

Be sure to steam the potatoes after draining, and let them cool slightly before adding the dressing. This helps them release excess moisture so your salad stays creamy—not soggy.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Definitely. Chopped carrots, green peas, or even shredded chicken can be mixed in to make the salad heartier. Just be careful not to overload it, or the creamy balance might get thrown off.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s something incredibly comforting about making a dish that feels like home, and this creamy old-fashioned potato salad is exactly that kind of recipe. With its tender Yukon Gold potatoes, perfectly hard-boiled eggs, crunchy celery, tangy pickles, and rich yet balanced dressing, this is more than just a side dish—it’s a nostalgic experience on a plate.

What makes this potato salad truly shine is how simple it is to prepare. Even if you’re brand new to cooking, you can follow these steps and end up with a dish that people will rave about. The ingredients are humble and affordable, yet when combined with care and attention, they deliver something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a weekend barbecue, or just because you’re craving something familiar and satisfying, this recipe fits the occasion.

It’s the kind of recipe that can evolve with your kitchen. You can make it your own by tweaking the mustard, tossing in fresh herbs, or adding extra pickles if that’s your style. And as we covered earlier, it pairs beautifully with just about anything—from grilled meats and sandwiches to lighter vegetarian mains and fresh salads.

Now, the next step is simple: make it! Gather your ingredients, block out a little time, and enjoy the process. Cooking this salad doesn’t require a lot of effort, but the reward is big. And don’t forget to give it some chill time in the fridge—it really makes a difference.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did your family love it? Did you make any fun changes? Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I truly enjoy seeing how these recipes come to life in your kitchens.

And if this potato salad wins you over (which I think it will), consider making it a regular part of your meal planning. It’s a reliable, delicious classic for a reason. So go ahead—dig in, enjoy every creamy, tangy bite, and share it with the people you love.

Happy cooking!

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Old-fashioned potato salad

Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Egg and Pickles: Creamy Recipe


  • Author: Julia Hart
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chill time)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This classic potato salad is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy, featuring Yukon Gold potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, dill pickles, and a smooth homemade dressing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes

  • 4 hard-boiled eggs (yolks and whites separated)

  • 2 dill pickles, finely chopped + splash of pickle juice

  • 2 ribs celery, chopped

  • ¼ cup red onion, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise

  • ¼ cup buttermilk

  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard (or half Dijon)

  • Mashed yolks from hard-boiled eggs

  • Splash of pickle juice

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  • Boil unpeeled potatoes until fork-tender (10–15 min), drain, steam in pot with lid on for 5–10 min. Peel and chop into ½-inch chunks.

  • Boil eggs (10–12 min), cool in ice water, peel. Separate yolks and mash for the dressing. Chop whites.

  • Make dressing: mix mashed yolks, mayo, buttermilk, mustard, pickle juice, salt, and pepper.

  • Combine warm potatoes with dressing. Fold gently.

  • Add chopped egg whites, celery, onion, and pickles. Mix gently.

  • Chill for 2–4 hours before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use half mayo and half Greek yogurt.

  • Salad tastes even better the next day!

  • Optional: garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling, Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

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