Creamy Horseradish Potato Salad – A Zesty Twist on a Classic!

This Horseradish Potato Salad is a bold, flavorful upgrade to the traditional picnic staple! Creamy, tangy, and with a spicy kick from fresh horseradish, it’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Originating from German and Eastern European cuisine, horseradish adds a pungent depth that pairs wonderfully with tender potatoes and a rich, creamy dressing. If you love potato salad but crave something with a little more excitement, this recipe is for you!
What makes this version special? The horseradish isn’t overpowering—it’s balanced by sour cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Plus, it’s easy to customize with add-ins like crispy bacon, pickles, or hard-boiled eggs. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this potato salad will quickly become a favorite.
Why This Horseradish Potato Salad Recipe Works
1. Bold, Balanced Flavors: The combination of horseradish, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar creates a tangy, slightly spicy dressing that clings perfectly to the potatoes. The sour cream and mayonnaise mellow out the heat, making it flavorful without being overwhelming.
2. Easy to Customize: Love extra crunch? Add celery or pickles. Prefer smokiness? Toss in crispy bacon. This recipe is versatile and welcomes creative tweaks.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly: Like most potato salads, this one tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. It’s a great dish to prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.
What’s In Horseradish Potato Salad?
The key ingredients in this recipe work together to create a creamy, zesty, and satisfying dish:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Hold their shape well and have a buttery texture.
- Fresh Horseradish: Adds a spicy, pungent kick (use prepared horseradish if fresh isn’t available).
- Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Create a rich, creamy base for the dressing.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and depth.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess.
- Fresh Dill & Chives: Provide a fresh, herbal note.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs (optional): Add extra protein and texture.

How To Make Horseradish Potato Salad
This recipe is simple but requires a few key steps to ensure the potatoes are perfectly cooked and the flavors are well-balanced. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Wash and cube the potatoes (peeling is optional).
- Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in chopped herbs (dill and chives).
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Gently fold the warm potatoes into the dressing (they absorb flavors better when slightly warm).
- Add optional mix-ins like eggs or bacon.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Sides for Horseradish Potato Salad
Pair this zesty potato salad with:
- Grilled Bratwurst or Kielbasa: A classic German pairing.
- Smoked Pulled Pork: The creaminess cuts through the richness.
- Pickled Vegetables: Adds acidity and crunch.
- Buttery Cornbread: Balances the heat.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use Prepared Horseradish?
Yes! Use 2-3 tablespoons of prepared horseradish (adjust to taste). Avoid creamy horseradish sauce, as it’s too mild.
How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time!
Can I Make It Vegan?
Swap mayo for vegan mayo and sour cream for coconut yogurt. Omit eggs if needed.
Other Recipes To Try
- Mustard Potato Salad: A vinegar-based version with bacon.
- Caprese Potato Salad: A Fresh & Flavorful Summer Side
- Wasabi Deviled Eggs: A Japanese-inspired twist.
- Beet and Potato Salad: A show-stopping side dish that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful!
- Beetroot and Horseradish Dip: Vibrant and spicy.
- Dill Pickle Potato Salad: Tangy and crunchy.

Creamy Horseradish Potato Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 lbs 900g Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh grated horseradish or prepared
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh dill chopped
- 2 tbsp chives minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (10-12 mins). Drain and let cool slightly.
- Make Dressing: Whisk mayo, sour cream, horseradish, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir in herbs.
- Combine: Gently fold warm potatoes into dressing. Add eggs if using.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust horseradish to taste—start with 1 tbsp for mild heat.
- Texture: For chunkier salad, leave skins on and cube potatoes larger.
- Make Ahead: Best made 4-6 hours ahead for flavors to meld.
- Add-Ins: Try crispy bacon, pickles, or celery for extra crunch.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based mayo and yogurt.
- Bonus Upgrade: Stir in diced pickles or capers for extra tang!
Nutrition
Enjoy your Horseradish Potato Salad! Let us know in the comments how you customized it!
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