McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe

McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe

Hey, Welcome to the McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe. McAlister’s Potato Salad is a creamy, chunky, flavorful side dish made with tender potatoes, mayonnaise, seasonings, and a touch of tang.

If you’ve ever eaten this at McAlister’s Deli with a sandwich or a warm bowl of soup, you already know how comforting and delicious it feels with every bite.

I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this delightful recipe right in your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American
Category: Side Dish

History and Origin

McAlister’s Deli began in Mississippi and became famous for its homestyle sides. Potato salad has been an American favorite for generations.

This version blends classic Southern flavors with creamy texture, making it a comforting choice enjoyed at family dinners, picnics, potlucks, and restaurants across the United States.

What does McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe taste like?

This potato salad tastes creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet with tender potato chunks that hold their shape.

Its seasoning is mild yet flavorful, making it perfect for pairing with deli sandwiches. You enjoy a smooth, rich bite each time, balanced with a refreshing hint of mustard.

By the way, you can also try the Jersey Mike’s Tuna Recipe.

McAlister’s Potato Salad Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe:

IngredientQuantity
Russet potatoes4 large
Mayonnaise1 cup
Yellow mustard1 tablespoon
Celery1 stalk, finely chopped
Onion¼ cup finely chopped
Pickle relish2 tablespoons
Sugar1 teaspoon
Salt½ teaspoon
Black pepper¼ teaspoon
Paprika½ teaspoon
Hard boiled eggsHard-boiled eggs

Equipment Needed

Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Homemade McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe:

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Colander

How to Make McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender but firm. Drain and let them cool completely so they hold their shape.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add vegetables

Stir in chopped celery, onion, and pickle relish. These add crunch and flavor to the salad without overpowering the potatoes.

Step 4: Add potatoes and eggs

Gently fold in cooled potatoes and chopped boiled eggs. Mix slowly to keep the chunks intact and avoid making the salad mushy.

Step 5: Chill the salad

Before serving, place the potato salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps the flavors blend perfectly.

Recipe Card

McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe

McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe

Hey, Welcome to the McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe. McAlister’s Potato Salad is a creamy, chunky, flavorful side dish made with tender potatoes, mayonnaise, seasonings, and a touch of tang.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 celery stalk finely chopped
  • ¼ cup onion finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 hard boiled eggs chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Colander

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the potatoes
  1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender but firm. Drain and let them cool completely so they hold their shape.
    McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe
Step 2: Prepare the dressing
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy.
    McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe
Step 3: Add vegetables
  1. Stir in chopped celery, onion, and pickle relish. These add crunch and flavor to the salad without overpowering the potatoes.
    McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe
Step 4: Add potatoes and eggs
  1. Gently fold in cooled potatoes and chopped boiled eggs. Mix slowly to keep the chunks intact and avoid making the salad mushy.
    McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe
Step 5: Chill the salad
  1. Before serving, place the potato salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps the flavors blend perfectly.
    McAlister's Potato Salad Recipe

Notes

You can enjoy this potato salad with deli sandwiches, grilled chicken, burgers, or barbecue plates.

Nutritional Information

Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe:

NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories310
Carbohydrates28g
Protein5g
Fat20g
Fiber3g
Sodium420mg

Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy this potato salad with deli sandwiches, grilled chicken, burgers, or barbecue plates. It also pairs well with soups and picnic spreads.

I love serving it chilled because the flavors develop beautifully and create a refreshing contrast to warm main dishes.

Storage Tips

For up to three days, keep the potato salad in the fridge in an airtight container. Keep it cold at all times and avoid leaving it out too long.

Stir gently before serving to refresh its texture. Do not freeze it because mayonnaise-based salads lose quality once thawed.

Variations You Can Try

I love experimenting with flavors, and you can do the same with this potato salad. You can add bacon, swap mayo for Greek yogurt, use dill pickles, or mix in fresh herbs.

These small changes help you create your own signature version easily.

Why This Potato Salad Always Impresses

This McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe stands out because of its creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and tender potato chunks.

Every bite tastes comforting without being heavy. When you serve it at parties, picnics, or family meals, everyone enjoys how simple yet flavorful it is.

Tips To Make It Taste Even Better

A few simple adjustments can boost the flavor. Chill the salad long enough, use fresh ingredients, season gradually, and adjust the creaminess to your liking.

You will notice how these tiny details make the salad richer, smoother, and more satisfying.

Perfect Occasions To Serve This Dish

This recipe works for many events like potlucks, barbecues, picnics, lunch boxes, or family dinners.

Its mild flavor pairs well with many mains, making it a versatile dish. I always prepare a large batch because it disappears fast at gatherings.

Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Overcooking potatoes, mixing while hot, or adding too much dressing can change the texture. Cooling the potatoes fully prevents mushiness.

Measuring ingredients correctly and folding gently also helps. With these simple steps, your potato salad will turn out perfect every time.

Conclusion

This McAlister’s Potato Salad Recipe gives you the same comforting, creamy flavor you enjoy at the deli. I love how simple it is, and I know you will too. Try it today and see how easily it becomes your favorite side dish.

With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!

Happy Cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long can potato salad stay fresh?

Potato salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use red potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes, red potatoes work well because they hold their shape beautifully.

Can I skip the eggs in this recipe?

Yes, you can skip eggs if you prefer an egg free potato salad.

How do I prevent my potato salad from getting watery?

Cool potatoes completely before mixing with the dressing.

Can I make McAlister’s potato salad a day ahead?

Yes, making it a day early enhances the flavor.

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Hi, I'm Neeru, the soul behind HowdyRecipes.com! With over 10 years of experience in cooking and food blogging, I've spent the last decade exploring flavours, testing recipes, and sharing the joy of homemade food with fellow food lovers around the world. Thanks for attention♥

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