mama’s old-fashioned potato salad – dee dee’s

A Taste of Nostalgia: The Ultimate Potato Salad Recipe

Some recipes are more than just food—they are cherished memories served on a plate. Mama’s Old-Fashioned Potato Salad – Dee Dee’s is one of those timeless dishes that bring back memories of backyard barbecues, holiday feasts, and Sunday suppers with loved ones. This classic potato salad has been passed down through generations in my family, with my grandmother making it for family gatherings and my mother continuing the tradition.

It’s the only potato salad our family eats, and I hope it becomes a staple in your home as well.

With its creamy texture, tangy pickles, and perfect blend of flavors, this potato salad is a delightful side dish for grilled meats, fried chicken, or even a simple sandwich. The combination of Idaho potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and pickles creates a well-balanced and flavorful dish. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic, a potluck, or a festive holiday meal, this potato salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Mama’s Old-Fashioned Potato Salad

Main Ingredients:

• 5 lbs Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 5 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle cubes or relish
• 1/2 cup dill pickle cubes or relish
• 1 stalk celery, diced (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 to 2 cups Hellman’s mayonnaise
• 1.5 to 2 tablespoons mustard

For Garnish:

• 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
• Paprika, for sprinkling (optional)

How to Make Mama’s Old-Fashioned Potato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. Peel the Idaho potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
2. Place the cubed potatoes into a large 5-quart pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning.
3. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 7 to 8 minutes. Start checking for doneness around the 5 to 6-minute mark. The potatoes should be tender yet firm—avoid overcooking, as you don’t want them turning into mashed potatoes.
4. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set them aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Mix-Ins

1. While the potatoes are cooling, chop the onion and hard-boiled eggs into small pieces.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sweet and dill pickle cubes (or relish), celery (if using), salt, pepper, mustard, and mayonnaise. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Once the potatoes are fully cooled, gently fold in the chopped onion and eggs.
2. Slowly add the mayonnaise mixture to the potatoes and mix everything together. Be gentle when folding to prevent breaking the potatoes too much.
3. If the potato salad looks too dry, feel free to add a little more mayonnaise. If it’s too creamy, you can hold back on some of the mayo mixture.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the potato salad to a serving dish.
2. Top with sliced hard-boiled eggs and a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color and flavor.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Salad

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Idaho potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold their shape while still becoming tender and creamy. Avoid using overly starchy potatoes, as they may fall apart.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: The key to the perfect potato salad is ensuring that the potatoes are cooked just right—firm yet tender.
• Use High-Quality Mayonnaise: Hellman’s mayonnaise gives the best creamy texture, but you can use your favorite brand.
• Let It Chill: While you can eat this potato salad right away, it’s best to refrigerate it for at least an hour or overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and makes the salad even tastier.
• Customize It: If you like a little crunch, add diced bell peppers or more celery. For extra tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
• Make It Ahead: This potato salad is great for making ahead of time. Prepare it the night before your gathering for a stress-free dish on the day of the event.

Serving Suggestions

This potato salad pairs perfectly with classic comfort foods and summer favorites. Here are some delicious meal ideas to serve with it:

• BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: The creamy and tangy flavors of the potato salad balance out the smoky richness of barbecue meats.
• Fried Chicken: A crispy piece of fried chicken and a scoop of this potato salad is a match made in heaven.
• Grilled Burgers and Hot Dogs: Serve alongside grilled meats for a backyard cookout favorite.
• Holiday Ham or Turkey: This dish isn’t just for summer—it’s a fantastic addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
• Simple Sandwiches: Even a turkey or ham sandwich becomes extra special when served with a side of this delicious potato salad.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing potato salad, as the texture of the potatoes and mayonnaise may change upon thawing.

A Family Tradition That Never Fails

Every family has those recipes that stand the test of time, and Mama’s Old-Fashioned Potato Salad – Dee Dee’s is one of those classics. Passed down from my grandmother to my mother and now to me, this potato salad represents more than just a side dish—it’s a symbol of love, tradition, and shared meals with family and friends.

No matter the occasion, this creamy and flavorful potato salad is guaranteed to be a hit. The simple ingredients, time-tested method, and nostalgic flavors make it a dish you’ll want to pass down to your loved ones as well. So the next time you’re planning a meal, remember to include this timeless potato salad recipe—because sometimes, the best flavors come from the past.