What not to do when making potato salad?

A few missteps can quickly turn your delicious side dish into a disaster. The biggest mistake? Overcooking or undercooking the potatoes. Soft, mushy potatoes will collapse when mixed, while undercooked ones feel chalky and ruin the texture. Another common mistake is skipping the seasoning. Even in a hellmann's potato salad recipe , salt, pepper, mustard, and vinegar are essential flavor builders. Also, avoid adding mayonnaise while the potatoes are still hot this can cause the dressing to separate and become oily. To get the best results, follow Chef Lisa’s advice: cool your potatoes, season in layers, and never guess on ingredient amounts. A measured touch goes a long way.

Why put vinegar on potatoes for potato salad?

Vinegar might seem like a small addition, but it’s a flavor powerhouse. In a proper hellmann's potato salad recipe , adding vinegar to warm potatoes helps lock in tanginess and enhances the overall balance of creamy and acidic elements. It also prevents the salad from becoming bland and gives it that fresh, crave-worthy pop. Apple cider or white vinegar works best, depending on your taste preference. Just remember: add it while the potatoes are still warm so they absorb the flavor deeply.

Can you use Hellman’s in potato salad?

Yes, and it’s highly recommended. Hellmann’s is actually the gold standard for many home cooks and professional chefs alike. Its creamy texture, subtle tang, and ability to blend smoothly with other ingredients make it the perfect base for a classic hellmann's potato salad recipe . Lisa uses it in almost all of her chilled salad recipes because it adds consistency without overpowering. From egg salad to coleslaw, Hellmann’s is her go-to for creamy dishes.

How does Paula Deen make potato salad?

Paula Deen’s potato salad leans on Southern charm and richness. Her version typically includes russet potatoes, sweet pickle relish, chopped hard-boiled eggs, yellow mustard, and a generous helping of mayonnaise (sometimes Duke’s). It’s creamy, bold, and often served slightly mashed for that thick, hearty texture. While Chef Lisa respects the Southern style, her hellmann's potato salad recipe opts for lighter flavors and a chunkier, more balanced feel. Both are delicious it really comes down to personal taste and regional tradition. Don’t miss our the Brazilian Mounjaro drink recipe for a fun, zesty beverage to complement your summer table.

Hellmann’s Potato Salad Recipe – The Best Creamy Side Dish Ever (2025)

Name: Hellmann's Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped; 1 cup Hellmann’s mayonnaise; 2 celery stalks, finely diced; 1/4 cup red onion (optional), diced; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 2 tsp apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Paprika for garnish (optional)

Description

This Hellmann’s potato salad recipe is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor—perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or any comforting family meal. A classic side dish made with simple, wholesome ingredients, straight from Chef Lisa’s kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1 cup Hellmann’s mayonnaise
2 celery stalks, finely diced
1/4 cup red onion (optional), diced
1 tbsp yellow mustard
2 tsp apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Paprika for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Place cubed potatoes in cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and spread on a tray to cool.
While potatoes are warm, sprinkle with vinegar and let rest for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together Hellmann’s mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Add celery, onion, and chopped eggs into the mayo mixture. Stir to combine.
Gently fold in cooled potatoes until evenly coated.

Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with paprika if desired.

Notes

For extra tang, try adding a bit of pickle relish or dill. Best enjoyed within 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiled
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 310 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg

Keywords: hellmann's potato salad recipe, creamy potato salad, picnic salad, summer side dish, classic potato salad, mayonnaise salad, easy potato salad, traditional American salad