Name: Cajun Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb red potatoes; 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes; 3/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional)

If you’re looking for a twist on the classic potato salad, then you’ve come to the right place. Cajun potato salad is a bold and flavorful variation that adds a bit of heat and a whole lot of taste. The creamy texture of the potatoes, mixed with the zesty Cajun seasoning, creates an irresistible combination that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight.

I absolutely love how simple yet delicious Cajun potato salad is. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can elevate a standard side dish into something extraordinary. The spiciness of the Cajun seasoning blends perfectly with the richness of the potatoes and the creamy dressing. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for your next meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Potato Salad

Cajun potato salad is perfect for anyone who loves a little spice in their life! The unique Cajun seasoning adds depth and flavor that turns a typical potato salad into something truly special. The creamy texture and crunch of the potatoes balance the heat, creating a comforting yet bold dish. It’s also a versatile side, pairing well with everything from grilled meats to seafood. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or a big summer party, this potato salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Cajun Potato Salad?

When it comes to Cajun potato salad, I prefer using a mix of red potatoes and Yukon Golds. Red potatoes hold their shape well after boiling, giving the salad a hearty bite. Yukon Golds, on the other hand, offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor that complements the spicy dressing beautifully. You could also use russet potatoes in a pinch, but they tend to break down more and make the salad mushier. The key is to choose waxy or semi-waxy potatoes that won’t fall apart when mixed with the dressing.

Options for Substitutions

Not only is this recipe bursting with flavor, it’s also super flexible if you need to make some tweaks.

For a lighter version, swap out the mayo with Greek yogurt or a half mayo, half sour cream combo.
If you want it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning.
To make it vegetarian or vegan, use egg-free mayo and double-check your Cajun spice blend (some pre-made mixes contain dairy).
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, try a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper.
Want more crunch? Toss in some finely chopped celery or bell peppers.
Don’t like parsley? Use green onions or fresh dill for a fresh herb twist.

Cajun potato salad is forgiving and open to interpretation — just don’t skip the seasoning!

Ingredients for This Cajun Potato Salad

Red Potatoes
These hold their shape well and provide a waxy, smooth bite — essential for a good potato salad texture.
Yukon Gold Potatoes
Creamy and buttery, they help balance the heat with a richer mouthfeel.
Mayonnaise
Acts as the creamy base of the dressing and brings everything together.
Dijon Mustard
Adds tang and a subtle sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
Cajun Seasoning
The star flavor! This blend of paprika, garlic, cayenne, and herbs gives the salad its bold, spicy kick.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Brings brightness and acidity to cut through the richness.
Fresh Parsley
Adds color and a fresh herbal note to balance the heat.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential to enhance all the flavors and make them pop.
Green Onions (optional)
For a little crunch and mild sharpness — totally worth adding if you like a bit of bite.

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Wash and scrub the potatoes well, especially if you’re keeping the skin on. Cut them into evenly sized chunks — about 1-inch pieces work best for a hearty bite that won’t fall apart.

Step 2: Boil Until Tender

Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Cajun seasoning, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — feel free to add more Cajun spice if you love the heat!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the dressing while they’re still slightly warm so they absorb more flavor. Toss in chopped parsley and green onions if using.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and the dressing to set nicely.

How Long to Cook the Cajun Potato Salad

The total cooking time for Cajun potato salad is surprisingly short. Once you prep the potatoes, they only need to boil for about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the chunks. You want them fork-tender — soft enough to bite through, but still firm enough to hold their shape when mixed. After draining, let them cool for about 10 minutes before adding the dressing. Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Potato Salad

Salt your boiling water generously — it’s your only chance to season the potatoes from within.
Don’t overcook the potatoes or they’ll turn mushy in the salad. Aim for tender but firm.
Dress the potatoes while warm. This helps them soak up more flavor from the creamy Cajun mixture.
Taste the dressing before mixing. Cajun seasoning can vary — add more or less depending on your spice preference.
Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving — it’s even better the next day!
Use fresh herbs if possible. They brighten the entire dish and contrast nicely with the creamy texture.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Cajun potato salad is a simple dish, a few common missteps can affect the final result:

Overcooking the Potatoes
Soft, falling-apart potatoes will make your salad mushy. Keep a close eye and test them with a fork.
Skipping the Salt in Boiling Water
If the water isn’t salted, your potatoes will taste bland no matter how flavorful the dressing is.
Adding Dressing to Cold Potatoes
Warm potatoes absorb flavor better. Let them cool just slightly — not completely — before mixing.
Using Too Much Cajun Seasoning at Once
Cajun blends vary widely in spice level. Start small, taste, and build up if needed.
Not Letting the Salad Chill
This dish really benefits from sitting in the fridge. It gives the seasoning time to meld into the potatoes.

What to Serve With Cajun Potato Salad?

This bold, zesty salad goes with so many dishes. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Grilled Chicken

The smoky char from the grill pairs perfectly with the creamy heat of the salad.

BBQ Ribs

Rich, sticky ribs and spicy potato salad are a match made for backyard gatherings.

Blackened Fish

The Cajun flavors complement blackened catfish, tilapia, or salmon beautifully.

Fried Shrimp or Fish

Crispy fried seafood loves a cool, spicy side to balance it out.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

The tang and heat from the potato salad cut through the savory pork flavors.

Burgers or Sliders

A great side for anything off the grill, especially spiced-up burgers.

Roasted Corn on the Cob

Keep the Cajun theme going by brushing your corn with butter and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.

Baked Beans

Their sweetness balances the spice of the salad for a comforting Southern plate.

Storage Instructions

Cajun potato salad stores wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or make-ahead gatherings. Once prepared, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Make sure it stays cold — don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours, especially if you’re serving it at a picnic or barbecue.

If the salad looks a little dry after a day or two, just stir in a spoonful of mayo or a splash of vinegar to revive it. Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the potatoes and the creamy dressing won’t hold up well once thawed.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough breakdown for one serving (based on 6 servings total from the recipe):

Calories: ~280
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 420mg
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 3g

Note: These numbers can vary based on the brand of mayonnaise and the amount of seasoning you use. Adjust as needed depending on your specific ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cajun potato salad different from classic potato salad?

The seasoning! Cajun potato salad includes bold spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs, giving it a smoky, spicy flavor profile that’s quite different from the traditional dill or mustard-based versions.

Can I make Cajun potato salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s even better after a few hours in the fridge. Prepare it the night before for best flavor development.

Is Cajun potato salad spicy?

It can be, but the spice level is totally customizable. Start with a little Cajun seasoning and adjust based on your heat preference.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes! Just check the label for salt content — some blends are very salty, so you may need to reduce added salt elsewhere.

What’s the best way to cool the potatoes quickly?

After draining, spread the potatoes out on a baking sheet for a few minutes to release steam and cool slightly before mixing.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes. Just use vegan mayo and confirm your Cajun spice mix is dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Not necessarily. Red and Yukon Gold potatoes have thin, tender skins that add texture and color. Peel them only if you prefer a smoother salad.

Can I use leftover roasted potatoes for this?

You can, but the texture will be different. Boiled potatoes absorb the dressing better and offer a more classic potato salad feel.

Conclusion

Cajun potato salad is a fiery, flavorful twist on a comforting classic that’s sure to spice up any meal. I love how easily it comes together and how flexible it is to adjust. Whether you’re prepping it for a potluck, a summer BBQ, or just want to shake up your weekly dinner rotation, this salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again — especially once you see how fast it disappears from the bowl.