Few side dishes bring people together like a bowl of potato salad. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a picnic, or a weeknight dinner, this Hellmann’s potato salad recipe has stood the test of time as a comforting, creamy crowd pleaser.
Made with just a handful of fresh ingredients and Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and crunch. It’s no surprise this version has been a family favorite for generations.
Even better? With a few smart tips from Chef Lucas Benette, you can make it even better with just the right seasoning, texture, and presentation. Let’s start with what you’ll need to make this classic side dish.
Ingredients for Hellmann’s Potato Salad
This creamy potato salad keeps things simple, using fresh produce and pantry staples. The secret is the Hellmann’s mayo, which adds smoothness and a hint of tang that holds the whole dish together.
Classic Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
- 1 cup Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard (for tang)
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped (or sweet white onion)
- 3 large hard boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tbsp white vinegar (optional, adds brightness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)
Optional Add Ins:
- Sweet pickle relish
- Crumbled bacon
- Dijon mustard instead of yellow
- Dill or fresh herbs for a twist
You can adjust the amount of mayo or mustard depending on how creamy or tangy you like your salad.
Chef Lucas Benette’s Twist on the Classic Recipe
Chef Lucas Benette believes the secret to elevating any traditional dish lies in attention to texture and flavor balance. His version of the classic Hellmann’s potato salad recipe stays true to the original but includes a few clever upgrades to make it stand out at any table.
Chef Lucas’s Enhancements:
- Egg to Potato Ratio: Lucas recommends 4 eggs instead of 3 for a creamier bite and more body.
- Fresh Herbs: He stirs in a handful of finely chopped dill or parsley for freshness.
- Balanced Acidity: A splash of white wine vinegar or even a touch of lemon juice gives the salad a bright, zesty lift.
- Textural Contrast: He folds in a spoonful of sweet pickle relish for a slight crunch and sweetness that balances the mayo.
“The best potato salad doesn’t overpower with mayo it layers flavor from seasoning, eggs, and herbs,” says Lucas.
Step by Step Preparation Method
Follow these steps to create a creamy, well seasoned potato salad every time:
1. Boil the Potatoes
Scrub and peel the potatoes (if desired), then chop them into bite sized chunks. Boil in salted water until fork tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and cool.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine Hellmann’s mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the Crunch & Cream
Fold in chopped celery, onion, and hard boiled eggs. Add in optional herbs or relish if desired.
4. Combine & Chill
Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving. The flavors meld best when cold.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with paprika and fresh parsley just before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tip: “Don’t overmix or mash the potatoes,” Chef Lucas advises. “You want soft cubes not mashed salad.”
Potato Salad Flavor Variations
The beauty of the classic Hellmann’s potato salad recipe is its versatility. Once you’ve mastered the base version, it’s easy to add a twist that suits your taste or your guests.
Here are a few delicious ways to mix things up:
1. Tangy Dill Version
Add 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice. Great with grilled fish or chicken.
2. Bacon & Cheddar
Fold in crumbled bacon and shredded sharp cheddar for a rich, smoky bite. Top with green onions.
3. Dijon Mustard Swap
Replace yellow mustard with Dijon for a bolder, slightly spicy flavor.
4. Southern Style Sweet Pickle
Add sweet pickle relish and a touch of sugar for a slightly sweet, Southern inspired version.
5. Spicy Jalapeño Twist
Chop and seed a fresh jalapeño and mix it in with the dressing for a mild heat.
Each version starts with the same creamy Hellmann’s base but adds a new flavor dimension perfect for making your dish stand out at any cookout or gathering.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
(Based on ~¾ cup serving of the classic version with Hellmann’s mayo)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Total Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
Tip: For a lighter version, try using Hellmann’s Light Mayo or substituting half of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.
FAQs About Hellmann’s Potato Salad Recipe
1. What not to do when making potato salad?
There are a few key mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the potatoes, which can make them mushy
- Undercooking the potatoes, leaving them hard and starchy
- Overmixing, which breaks up the potato chunks and turns the salad gluey
- Not chilling it properly letting it sit warm can ruin the flavor and texture
Chef Lucas Benette also cautions against adding mayo while the potatoes are still hot, as it can cause the dressing to separate.
2. What are the 4 ingredients in potato salad?
While potato salad can include many ingredients, the four core essentials in a classic version are:
- Potatoes
- Mayonnaise (Hellmann’s)
- Mustard
- Hard boiled eggs
Everything else like celery, onions, pickles, or herbs is optional and adds extra flavor and crunch.
3. How does Bobby Flay make potato salad?
Chef Bobby Flay is known for bold flavors. His versions of potato salad often include:
- Vinegar based dressings
- Grainy mustard or Dijon
- Fresh herbs like tarragon or dill
- Olive oil instead of mayonnaise, in some versions
His style is lighter, tangier, and perfect for grilled meats or summer meals.
4. What should I add to store bought potato salad?
To enhance store bought potato salad and make it taste more homemade, try adding:
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives)
- Chopped hard boiled eggs
- Crispy bacon bits
- A spoonful of Dijon or yellow mustard
- Paprika and black pepper for seasoning
These small upgrades make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts on the Ultimate Mayo Based Potato Salad
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a family potluck, or just need a trusty side dish, this Hellmann’s potato salad recipe is the kind of classic that never disappoints. With its creamy texture, satisfying crunch, and just the right amount of tang, it’s easy to see why it’s remained a favorite for decades.
Thanks to Chef Lucas Benette’s simple enhancements, you can now make it even more flavorful and fully personalized to your taste. From picnic tables to holiday spreads, this dish is always welcome.
