Dill Pickle Potato Salad

Dill Pickle Potato Salad is the side dish you didn’t know you were missing—until now. I threw it together one summer afternoon with a handful of red potatoes and a jar of dill pickles that needed using up, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with bold pickle flavor in every bite.

The fresh dill gives it a bright, herby kick, while the pickle brine in the dressing takes it to a whole new level. It’s one of those recipes that feels familiar but has just enough of a twist to keep people asking, “What’s in this?!” Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or just because you love pickles.

I ended up bringing it to a picnic with friends and family not long after that first try, and I wasn’t sure how it would go over, especially with my cousin, who’s loyal to her classic potato salad. But to my surprise, she loved it and even asked for the recipe. That was the moment I knew this wasn’t just a one-off experiment. Now, every time I make it, it brings back those memories of sharing something a little different and seeing everyone fall in love with it, bite after bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pickle lover approved: If you can’t get enough of that tangy dill flavor, this potato salad is calling your name. It’s packed with chopped pickles, fresh dill, and even a splash of pickle juice for good measure.
• Creamy with a twist: The dressing is rich and creamy, but the Dijon mustard and pickle juice give it a zippy kick that makes it stand out from traditional versions. No vinegar in this version!
• Great for gatherings: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, picnic, or potluck, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. It travels well and tastes even better after chilling.
• Simple ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—just pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to pull it all together.
• Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, so you can prep it ahead of time and check one more thing off your list.

Ingredients

The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

• Red baby potatoes: These hold their shape well after boiling and have a creamy texture that’s perfect for potato salad. No need to peel them—just halve and boil.
• Dill pickles: Go for your favorite crunchy variety. Chop them finely so every bite has that signature pickle punch.
• Red onion: If you find raw onion too strong, soak the chopped pieces in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
• Celery: Brings a fresh crunch to balance out the creamy dressing.
• Fresh dill: Don’t skip this! It brightens the salad and pairs perfectly with the pickles.
• Mayonnaise: Use a good-quality mayo for the best flavor and texture. I like Hellmann’s.
• Dill pickle juice: Straight from the jar, it adds bold tanginess to the dressing. Start with a little and adjust to taste.
• Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste after the salad has chilled; the flavors develop as it sits.

How to Make Dill Pickle Potato Salad

• Step One: Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
• Step Two: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Step Three: Add the warm potatoes, pickles, red onion, celery, and fresh dill to the bowl and gently toss to coat.
• Step Four: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

What to Serve With It

• Grilled burgers and hot dogs: A classic BBQ combo that never fails.
• BBQ chicken or ribs: The creamy, tangy salad balances out smoky, saucy meats.
• Pulled pork sandwiches: Add crunch and brightness to rich, tender pork.
• Baked or grilled pork chops: A fresh and flavorful side to complement simple mains.
• Picnic favorites: Serve with coleslaw, deviled eggs, pasta salad, and corn on the cob for a full spread.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the potatoes: Red potatoes work great, but Yukon Golds or baby white potatoes are also delicious and hold their shape well after boiling.
• Add chopped hard-boiled eggs: For a heartier, more traditional potato salad vibe with a dill pickle twist.
• Use sweet pickles: If you prefer a sweeter contrast, swap the dill pickles for sweet pickles or bread-and-butter chips.
• Try a different mustard: Yellow mustard gives a more classic flavor, while whole grain mustard adds texture and a subtle tang.
• Lighten it up: Use half mayo and half plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a slightly lighter, tangier dressing.
• Make it spicy: Stir in a little diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Add cheese: Shredded cheddar or crumbled feta can add a savory twist.
• Use dried dill in a pinch: Fresh is best, but if you don’t have any on hand, use about one-third the amount of dried dill instead.

Storage Instructions

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Store any leftover Dill Pickle Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle a bit. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. This recipe isn’t freezer-friendly, as the mayo-based dressing can separate and become watery after thawing. For best results, keep it chilled and serve cold.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Start with cold water: Place your potatoes in cold, salted water before boiling to ensure they cook evenly.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Boil just until fork-tender. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and fall apart when mixed.
• Mix while warm: Toss the potatoes with the dressing while they’re still warm so they soak up all that flavor.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least an hour so the flavors can meld together.
• Adjust seasoning last: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper after chilling, since the flavors develop more over time.
• Use a sharp knife for the pickles: This keeps them from getting squished and helps distribute the flavor evenly throughout the salad.
• Make it ahead: This salad is even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings.

Potato Salad Recipes

• Greek Potato Salad
• Herb Potato Salad
• Dutch Potato Salad
• Ranch Potato Salad
• Cheese Potato Salad
• Old-Fashioned Potato Salad

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