Best Ever German Potato Salad
Backyard barbecues, potlucks, picnics, graduation parties, and summertime events are the perfect reason to make a big batch of potato salad. Hot German potato salad a cinch to make, comes together very easily, and is done in about 30 minutes. The longest part will be waiting for the potatoes to boil and then all you need to do is whisk together the dressing, drizzle, toss, and serve. I like knowing that this potato salad is mayo-free so that in the warmer months there’s not as much to worry about when it may be left out in the heat. Additionally, there are some people who just don’t love mayo, and this potato salad may be right up their alley!
What Is German Potato Salad?
German potato salad is a family-favorite side dish made with buttery and tender red potatoes, bacon, and onions tossed in a tangy vinegar- and mustard-based dressing.
Ingredients in Warm German Potato Salad
My family’s German red potato salad uses commonly found ingredients that you may likely have on hand in your pantry and fridge.
Potato salad:
Red potatoes — The closest potatoes to the real German ones used for this salad, but Yukon Gold, Charlotte or yellow potatoes are fine. Do not use russet or white potatoes because they’re too starchy. Parsley — Gives the dish some nice color and extra flavor. Bacon, cooked — Optional but highly recommended (forgot to include it in the photo).
German potato salad dressing:
Red onion — However, you can use any type of onion (or omit if you have good reason to such as an allergy). Garlic — For flavor. Beef stock or broth White wine vinegar — Do not use apple cider vinegar if you want this to be authentic. You can use white vinegar instead. Dijon mustard — Or German mustard. Granulated sugar — Optional, but helps balance the vinegar. Salt and pepper, to taste Olive oil — Any oil can theoretically be used but I really find that this is the best and obvious choice.
How to Make German Potato Salad
Making a vinegar-based potato salad like this German version is quick and easy. Here are the basic recipe steps:
Tips for the Best German Potato Salad
When you’re boiling the potatoes, make sure not to overcook them. You don’t want them to fall apart! Make sure to add the mustard and vinegar dressing to the potatoes when they are still warm so they better absorb all of that tangy goodness. You can wait to add the cooked bacon bits until right before serving so it stays nice and crisp. It’s a wonderful contrast against the buttery soft and tender potatoes. To save time, you can use precooked bacon from your grocery store’s refrigerated case that you simply need to zap in the microwave for a minute or two and dice into pieces. You can of course make bacon the traditional way while the potatoes boil. If you are and want extra bacon flavor in your German potato salad, use two tablespoons of bacon grease rather than the olive oil called for.
What to Serve with German Potato Salad
Serve this warm German potato salad as a side at your next potluck, barbecue, family gathering, or picnic! It pairs well with the following:
Slow Cooker Cherry Cola Pulled Pork Honey BBQ Chicken Grilled Pork Chops Steak and Veggie Kebabs Sloppy Joes Black Bean Burgers Grilled Pineapple Chicken
More Easy Potato Salad Recipes:
Potato Salad with Bacon — This no mayo Potato Salad with Bacon is ready in just 30 minutes! It’s a vinegar potato salad the whole family will love. Tried this recipe? Leave a review! Consider leaving a 5 star rating if you’ve made and loved one of my recipes! Roasted Sweet Potato Salad – Goodbye mayo-loaded, mushy, boring potato salad. Hello to a Mexican-inspired potato salad full of flavor and texture with corn, black beans, peppers, and cilantro! Great for outdoor events and lunchboxes because there’s no mayo! Pink and Purple Potato Salad — Move over, boring potato salad! Have this PRETTY one made with purple potatoes instead!! NO MAYO makes it healthier and perfect for picnics, parties, potlucks and events!!
