There’s something deeply nostalgic about a bowl of Southern potato salad .
It shows up at every picnic.
At every church potluck.
At every backyard cookout like it owns the table.
Warm egg salad sandwiches? Sure.
Creamy coleslaw? You know it.
But nothing says summer in the South quite like a big, chilled bowl of mayonnaise-rich, mustard-kissed potato salad.
And let me tell you…
This isn’t just a side dish.
This is a love letter to Southern cooking , where flavor comes from simple ingredients done right — not fancy tricks.
Let’s walk through how to make the best Southern potato salad you’ve ever tasted — complete with a few secret touches that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).
🧄 What Makes Southern Potato Salad Different?
Unlike its Northern cousin, which leans into vinegar and mustard for bite, Southern potato salad is all about:
Creaminess
Tang
Just the right amount of sweetness
It’s made with:
Boiled eggs mixed right in
A rich dressing of mayo, mustard, relish, and seasoning
A sprinkle of nostalgia
This version is often served alongside fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or fresh cornbread — and if you grew up in the South, you probably remember your mama or grandma making a huge bowl before Sunday dinner.
Let’s get into the details.
🥣 Ingredients (Serves 8–10):