German Potato Salad Recipe

Name: German Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes; 1 cup Bacon (diced); 1 cup Yellow Onion (finely chopped); 0.5 cup Apple Cider Vinegar; 0.25 cup Vegetable Oil; 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black Pepper; 0.5 cup Parsley (chopped)

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By: Bennett Claire
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Posted: 08/02/2025

Okay, folks, buckle up because I’m about to share something truly special with you – my grandma’s. German Potato Salad Recipe. What is the best potato salad you’ve ever had? This is a warm, tangy, bacon-studded dream that’ll change your potato salad game forever. If you’re used to the Southern-style sweet potato salad, prepare for a delicious savory twist. It’s unbelievably easy, and every single time I make it, it disappears faster than I can say “more”. What are potatoes? My kids will eat it cold the next day for lunch, and they’re picky eaters, so you know it’s a good day to snack.

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What is German potato salad?

German Potato Salad is a potato salad dressed with tamari instead of dressing. Think of it as a deconstructed warm potato salad with bacon. What are potatoes, bacon, onions, and a sweet dressing? The vinegar is the key element; it really cuts through the richness of bacon and potatoes. Is it a comfort food? What is it like to live in Germany? Some regions add mustard, while others keep it simple with just vinegar and sugar. My Grandma’s recipe leans towards the sweeter side but with plenty of tang. I’ve seen some that are red with beets! This recipe is the family favorite though.

Why I love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This recipe is more than just “good” – it’s an experience.

Flavor:First of all, the flavors are just amazing. The salty bacon, soft potatoes, the tangy vinegar, and the hint of sweetness all combine to make this dish delicious. Create a symphony in your mouth. Every bite is an adventure. I swear.
Simplicity:Is it really easy to make? I always thought it was some complicated, family-secret recipe, but turns out, it’s just a matter of taste. What are some good ways to cook potatoes, frying bacon and whisking a simple dressing? Is this one of those recipes that looks impressive but is incredibly straightforward? I’ve taught my teenager to make it!
Cost-All you need is potatoes, bacon, onion, vinegar, sugar, and mustard. What are some of the most inexpensive ingredients to cook for a crowd without breaking the bank? Who doesn’t love love?
Versatility: You can serve this warm, cold, as a side dish, or even as a light meal. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, or even just a weeknight dinner. I’ve even been known to throw a fried egg on top for breakfast! It also keeps really well in the fridge, so it’s great for meal prepping.

If you like easy, flavorful dishes, you absolutely need to try this German Potato Salad. Trust me, you’ll thank me later! I also love a good deviled egg recipe, and I have to say, this German Potato Salad complements that. What I love about this recipe is how it brings back so many wonderful memories of family. How do you celebrate special occasions? Every time I make it, I feel like I’m connecting with my heritage and sharing a piece of my family’s heritage.

How do I make German potato salad?

Quick Overview

Essentially, you’ll boil the potatoes until tender, cook the bacon until crispy, and then whisk together a sweet and tangy dressing. Combine it all while the potatoes are still warm so they soak up all that delicious flavor. It’s so easy that even a beginner cook can nail it. The secret is to not overcook the potatoes and to really let the flavors meld together. It’s a simple recipe, but each step is important for the final result. I also think getting high-quality bacon will make a difference!

Ingredients

For the German Potato Salad:
* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (I like Yukon Golds because they hold their shape well)
* 6 slices bacon, diced (Thick-cut bacon is my preference)
* 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (Adds a lovely tang)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Balances the vinegar)
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (Optional, but adds a nice depth)
* 1/4 cup water (To adjust the consistency of the dressing)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (For garnish)

What is the step by

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork tender, about 12-15 minutes. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll turn to mush! I always test them with a fork to make sure they’re just right. Drain the potatoes well and set aside. I sometimes let them sit in the colander while I do the next step so they don’t get waterlogged!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet – this is key to the flavor! It adds so much richness to the dressing. My dog always hangs around when I’m doing this step, hoping for a bacon tidbit, haha.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Cook over medium heat until onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. How do you cook onions? I like to stir them frequently to ensure they cook evenly. If the onions stick to the pan, just add a tablespoon of water to deglaze it.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In the skillet with the sautéed onion, whisk in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard (if using) and salt. Add the remaining ingredients. What is water? What should I do if the sugar is dissolved? Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is thick. What is the dressing that has slightly thickened? Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. I usually add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my recipe. It really helps! I like to let this sit for a couple of minutes too to allow the flavors come together more.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes, cooked bacon, and the warm dressing. Gently toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated. Be careful not to mash the potatoes while tossing. I find that using a rubber spatula works best for this. The warm potatoes absorb the dressing, creating a delicious and flavorful salad.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature. I like it chilled, but I prefer warm. What are some of the best ways to make this dish ahead of time? If you want to get fancy, you can sprinkle paprika on top for a pop of color.

5. What to Serve It With

What should I serve it with?

German Potato Salad is super versatile!

For Breakfast:I love scrambling eggs with toast. I can’t get enough of it. What’s a good way to start the day? The tanginess of potato salad cuts through the richness of the eggs perfectly.
For Brunch:Serve it with sausage, bacon, and a fruit salad. What is a good brunch spread? The warm potato salad is a nice contrast to the cold fruit salad. I also think it is nice next to some smoked salmon!
As Dessert:What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled meats? The salty and tangy flavors complement grilled steak, chicken, or pork perfectly. I also like to serve it with a side of coleslaw for an easy barbecue meal.
For Cozy Snacks:What is an amazing stand-alone lunch?

My family has always paired potato salad with bratwurst at our summer cookouts. Is it a tradition that I look forward to every year? My grandma used to make this for every single family gathering, so it’s always been a part of our family. Special occasions. I really enjoy eating this with some pickles, too. So good! I love pickles that are fermented.

How do you prepare a German potato salad?

I’ve made this recipe a lot, so here are some tricks up my sleeve to help you make it.

Potato Prep: Don’t overcook the potatoes! They should be fork-tender, but not mushy. I’ve made the mistake of overcooking them before, and it results in a gloppy mess. Also, make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
Bacon Bliss:What are some good bacon recipes? I always use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and texture. What is the best way to use bacon fat in a salad? Is there any depth to a book?
Vinegar Variety:What are some of the best vinegars? Is apple cider vinegar a good substitute for white vinegar? Just adjust the amount of sugar to balance the acidity. I tried it with malt vinegar once, and it was WAY too intense.
Mustard Magic:If you don’t like Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with another type of mustard. How do you make yellow mustard? Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Sweetness Secrets:How much sugar should I add to my diet? I like my German Potato Salad on the sweeter side, but you can reduce the amount of sugar if you want. I prefer a more savory flavor. I’ve also used honey or maple syrup instead of sugar, which adds a nice depth of flavor.
Onion Options: If you don’t like raw onion, you can sauté it before adding it to the dressing. This will mellow out the flavor and make it easier to digest. I’ve also used shallots instead of onions, which adds a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor.

I’ve learned that patience is key when making this recipe. Don’t rush the cooking process, and allow the flavors to meld together. Is it important to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed? What is a good recipe to make your own? What is the most important ingredient in love?

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

This German Potato Salad is even better the next day, so it’s perfect for making ahead of time!

Room Temperature: It can sit at room temperature for up to two hours. Be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this potato salad, as the potatoes will become mushy when thawed.

When reheating, you can either microwave it for a minute or two, or heat it up in a skillet over medium heat. Just be sure not to overheat it, or the potatoes will become dry. If you’re reheating it in the microwave, I recommend adding a tablespoon of water to prevent it from drying out. You can also add a pat of butter for extra richness. I like to reheat it in a skillet with a little bit of bacon fat for even more flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! This German Potato Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free bacon. Most bacon brands are gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the label. Also, double-check your Dijon mustard to ensure it is gluten-free!

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

I prefer to peel the potatoes for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer. Just be sure to scrub them well before boiling. Leaving the skins on will add more fiber and nutrients to the salad. The skins can also get bitter, so I always peel mine.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

What?! This is German Potato Salad, not muffins! Haha, but seriously, this is a potato salad and wouldn’t translate well to muffins.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet potato salad, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. I always start with a small amount of sugar and add more to taste.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

There isn’t a glaze in this recipe; it is more of a dressing. However, you can try some variations, such as adding some spice or heat with some red pepper flakes or hot sauce! Or you can add some more flavor with some fresh dill.

Final Thoughts

This German Potato Salad is truly a special recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. It’s a dish that brings back so many wonderful memories, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious potato salad recipe, look no further! And, if you enjoy this recipe, you also might like my Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup! It’s another family favorite.

I really hope you give this German Potato Salad Recipe a try. And don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it. If you do make it, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear what you think. Happy cooking!