Go Back
amish potato salad recipe

Authentic Amish Potato Salad

A creamy, sweet-tangy traditional Amish potato salad featuring red potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a perfectly balanced dressing that's been a heritage recipe for generations.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Potato & Starchy Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 286

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pounds red potatoes scrubbed clean
  • 1/2 cup celery diced small
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed optional
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish
  • Fresh dill sprigs
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place the red potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook potatoes until fork-tender but still firm, about 15-20 minutes depending on size. Be careful not to overcook.
  3. Drain potatoes thoroughly and let cool just until they can be handled comfortably.
  4. While potatoes are cooling slightly, prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, sugar, pickle relish (if using), salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth.
  5. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized ¾-inch cubes and set aside.
  6. Add diced celery, red onion, chopped eggs, and celery seed (if using) to the dressing and gently stir to combine.
  7. Add the potato cubes to the bowl and fold gently with a rubber spatula until all potatoes are evenly coated with dressing. Be careful not to break the potato pieces.
  8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours is better to allow flavors to develop.
  9. Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh dill sprigs and a light dusting of paprika if desired.

Notes

  • For best flavor, make this salad a day ahead to allow flavors to fully develop.
  • If the potato salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a tablespoon or two of additional mayonnaise before serving.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • Always cook potatoes in cold water to ensure even cooking.
  • This salad will keep refrigerated for 3-5 days in an airtight container.