I love a good homemade potato salad, especially when it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. After trying different versions, I always come back to the Southern potato salad recipe Paula Deen made famous.
It has the perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and savory goodness. The combination of tender potatoes, crunchy bacon, and a smooth, flavorful dressing makes it irresistible. This dish is a must for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings.
It’s easy to make and always a hit. I like how simple ingredients come together for a classic Southern comfort food. In this recipe, I’ll share how I make it step by step. Plus, I’ll add some personal tips to make it even better. Let’s get started!
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
You will love this Southern potato salad recipe Paula Deen style because it’s the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
The tender potatoes soak up the rich dressing, while crispy bacon adds the perfect crunch. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients, yet it tastes like a dish straight from a Southern kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or a holiday meal, it’s always a crowd favorite.
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite add-ins like pickles, celery, or a little extra mustard for a zesty kick. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought potato salad again!
Can You Eat This Recipe Every Day?
While this Southern potato salad recipe Paula Deen style is delicious, I wouldn’t recommend eating it every day.
It’s rich and creamy, with ingredients like mayonnaise and bacon that add plenty of flavor but also a good amount of fat and calories.
Enjoying it occasionally as a side dish is perfect, especially for gatherings or special meals. If you want to make it healthier for daily consumption, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, reducing the bacon, or adding more fresh veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.
Moderation is key, so savor this Southern classic when the craving hits, but balance it with lighter meals throughout the week.
How To Prepare Southern potato salad recipe Paula Deen?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Southern American
Yield: Serves 15
Equipment Needed:
- Large saucepan
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
- 4 strips bacon
- 1 pound small unpeeled red potatoes
- 1 sliced green onion
- 1 boiled egg, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain, reserving about a tablespoon of the bacon grease. After it cools, crumble the bacon and set it aside.
2. Boil the Potatoes
Place the unpeeled red potatoes in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water. Add the reserved bacon grease and a pinch of salt to the water.
Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they’re tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the water and let the potatoes cool before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference, stirring until the dressing is smooth and well-blended.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled, chopped potatoes with the sliced green onion and chopped boiled egg.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top and give the salad a gentle mix to incorporate the bacon throughout.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Potassium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g
Serving Suggestions:
This southern potato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like barbecue ribs or fried chicken. It’s also a delightful addition to picnic spreads,
complementing dishes such as coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a crisp green salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Potato Choice: While red potatoes are traditional, feel free to experiment with Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor.
- Herb Additions: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley to introduce a burst of freshness.
- Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a creamier salad, adjust the mayonnaise quantity to your liking.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Preparing the salad a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Health Benefits:
Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, especially when consumed with the skin on.
Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline. While bacon adds flavor, consider using it in moderation due to its saturated fat content.
How Store ?
Storing this Southern potato salad recipe Paula Deen style is easy, but proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and safe to eat. I always place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days.
Since it contains mayonnaise, I never leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours to avoid spoilage. If making it ahead of time, I like to prepare the ingredients separately and mix them just before serving for the best texture.
Freezing isn’t a great option because the mayonnaise can separate, making the salad watery when thawed. For the best flavor and freshness, I recommend enjoying it within a couple of days!
Conclusion
This Southern potato salad recipe Paula Deen style is a true comfort food classic. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with rich flavors that make every bite unforgettable. I love how easy it is to make, yet it always impresses guests at any gathering.
The combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a perfectly seasoned dressing creates a dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or alongside a weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner.
Feel free to tweak it to match your taste—add extra spices, fresh herbs, or even a little heat. No matter how you make it, this Southern favorite will always be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!