If you’re anything like me, nothing beats a backyard BBQ with friends, delicious food, and that one perfect side dish that steals the show, like Mission BBQ Potato Salad. This creamy, tangy treat has a way of making every bite feel like a warm hug, and it’s always the first thing to disappear. Whether you’re looking to recreate this crowd-pleaser at home or want to know what makes it so special, I’ve got you covered with an easy-to-follow recipe and some handy tips.
Ready to make your BBQs unforgettable? Let’s dive in and make your own Mission BBQ Potato Salad! And if you’re into other classic BBQ sides, you might also love this Mission BBQ Meatloaf Recipe.
What’s So Special About Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe?
Mission BBQ Potato Salad isn’t your average side dish. It’s the kind of potato salad that can turn a simple BBQ meal into a feast. What makes it stand out is its perfect balance of flavours—creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of seasoning. The potatoes are tender but hold their shape, giving every bite that satisfying texture.

The dressing is a combination of mayo, mustard, and a dash of vinegar, which creates a savory, zesty twist that pairs wonderfully with smoky meats. It’s no surprise that it’s a fan favorite at Mission BBQ, and once you try it at home, you’ll understand why it’s always the first to disappear at any BBQ gathering. Looking for more ways to elevate your BBQ game? Don’t miss out on Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie.
Ingredients Required for Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful and creamy Mission BBQ Potato Salad:
- 1kg (2.2 lbs) baby waxy potatoes
- 30g (2½ tsp) wholegrain mustard
- 50ml (2½ tbsp) white wine vinegar
- 1 shallot, finely diced
- 60ml (¼ cup) extra virgin olive oil
- 60g (3 tbsp) mayonnaise
- 20g (1 tbsp) horseradish cream
- 40g (2 tbsp) sour cream
- ¼ lemon, juiced
- 200g (7 oz) streaky bacon, diced
- 2 spring onions (scallions), thinly sliced
Equipment and Tools
You’ll need these basic tools for the Mission BBQ Potato Salad:
- Large pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Sharp knife (for chopping ingredients)
- Mixing bowls (for combining)
- Potato peeler (optional)
- Spoon or whisk (for mixing dressing)
- Skillet (for cooking bacon)
- Colander (for draining potatoes)
Cooking Time
The Mission BBQ Potato Salad is simple to prepare and perfect for feeding a small crowd. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 5 people
How to Make Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Creating Mission BBQ Potato Salad at home is easy and rewarding. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a delicious and creamy potato salad that’s perfect for your next BBQ.
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes: Start by boiling the baby waxy potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender but firm. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, drain the water and let the potatoes cool slightly. You can leave the skins on for extra texture, or peel them if preferred.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes cool, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the diced streaky bacon for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain excess grease and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, wholegrain mustard, sour cream, horseradish cream, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice—season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to taste. The dressing should be creamy with a nice balance of tanginess.

Step 4: Combine: Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the dressing. Then, add the finely diced shallots, spring onions, and crispy bacon. Toss everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the potato salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld together, making it even more delicious. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Serving Ideas for Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Mission BBQ Potato Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of BBQ dishes. Here are a few serving ideas to make your meal complete:
1. Pair with Grilled Meats: Serve alongside smoked ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. The creamy texture complements smoky flavours beautifully. You can also serve it with some Mission BBQ Mac and Cheese for a truly indulgent BBQ meal.
2. Serve with BBQ Burgers: Top your juicy BBQ burgers with a scoop of potato salad for the ultimate comfort food experience. This combination adds the perfect balance to your burger feast.
3. As a Picnic Side: Pack it in your picnic basket for a perfect outdoor meal. Pair it with fresh sandwiches or grilled veggies. If you’re looking for a different BBQ side, try this Salt Lick Potato Salad for an easy, tasty alternative.
4. With Grilled Veggies: For a lighter BBQ, pair the potato salad with grilled corn, peppers, or zucchini for a fresh, healthy combo. This makes a great addition to your summer BBQ spread.
5. Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or dill to add a burst of color and extra freshness. The herbs enhance the flavour and give the dish a pop of visual appeal.
6. Alongside a BBQ Chicken Platter: Serve with a BBQ chicken platter featuring thighs, wings, and drumsticks. The creamy salad balances out the savoury chicken, making it a perfect side.
7. With a Green Salad: Pair it with a simple green salad for a more balanced plate that brings out the richness of the potato salad. This combo is light yet satisfying.
8. In a Wrap or Sandwich: Spoon the potato salad into a wrap with grilled chicken or steak for a fun and portable meal option. It’s an easy way to enjoy the salad while on the go.
9. Serve with Fried Fish: Try it alongside crispy fried fish or fish tacos. The tangy dressing of the potato salad pairs nicely with the fried texture, making a great contrast in flavours.
10. For a BBQ Buffet: Include it in a BBQ buffet spread, along with other sides like Texas Roadhouse Portobello Mushroom Chicken for a variety of flavours that everyone will enjoy.

Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Potato peeler
- Spoon or whisk
- Skillet
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1 kg 2.2 lbs baby waxy potatoes
- 30 g 2½ tsp wholegrain mustard
- 50 ml 2½ tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 shallot finely diced
- 60 ml ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 60 g 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 20 g 1 tbsp horseradish cream
- 40 g 2 tbsp sour cream
- ¼ lemon juiced
- 200 g 7 oz streaky bacon, diced
- 2 spring onions scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Start by boiling the baby waxy potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender but firm. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, drain the water and let the potatoes cool slightly. You can leave the skins on for extra texture, or peel them if preferred.
- Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes cool, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the diced streaky bacon for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain excess grease and set it aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, wholegrain mustard, sour cream, horseradish cream, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice—season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to taste. The dressing should be creamy with a nice balance of tanginess.
- Combine: Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the dressing. Then, add the finely diced shallots, spring onions, and crispy bacon. Toss everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the potato salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld together, making it even more delicious. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Video
Cookupp Community Tips on Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Our Cookupp community has shared some fantastic tips and tricks to elevate your Mission BBQ Potato Salad. Here are some of the best ideas from fellow home cooks:
1. Add Extra Flavor with Bacon: Many home cooks recommend adding more crispy bacon for an extra savory bite. The added bacon not only brings crunch but also deepens the flavor profile of the salad.
2. Use Different Mustards: While wholegrain mustard is a classic, some community members love experimenting with Dijon or honey mustard for a slightly different flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences!
3. Add Pickles for Zing: For those who love a tangy punch, adding finely chopped pickles or pickle juice to the dressing can enhance the overall flavor, giving it a sharp contrast to the creaminess of the potatoes.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil can provide a burst of freshness that lightens up the richness of the salad.
5. Make it a Meal: Turn this side dish into a main by adding some cooked chicken or pork chunks right into the salad. This makes for a quick, satisfying, and filling meal!
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how you can store and reheat your Mission BBQ Potato Salad while maintaining its delicious flavor and texture:
Storing Leftovers
After your BBQ, store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding together, making it even better the next day.
Reheating
If you prefer to serve your potato salad warm, gently heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overheat, as it may cause the dressing to break down. Alternatively, you can microwave small portions for about 20-30 seconds until warm, but again, avoid overheating to preserve the creamy texture.
Serving Cold
Mission BBQ Potato Salad is traditionally served cold. If you prefer it chilled, it’s perfect as a cold side dish after a day in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if you want to extend its shelf life. Store the potato salad in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Just note that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
FAQs on Mission BBQ Potato Salad Recipe
Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying Mission BBQ Potato Salad, along with answers to help you out:
Does Mission BBQ have potato salad?
Yes, Mission BBQ serves a classic potato salad that’s creamy, tangy, and a fan favourite. This recipe is inspired by their version, perfect for recreating that BBQ side dish at home.
How to make potato salad for a barbecue?
To make potato salad for a BBQ, boil potatoes until tender, mix them with a creamy dressing (like mayonnaise and mustard), and chill. Add extras like bacon, hard-boiled eggs, or pickles for extra flavour!
What are the 4 ingredients in potato salad?
The four main ingredients in most potato salads are potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and eggs. This basic combination creates a creamy, satisfying base for endless variations.
What salad dressing does Mission BBQ have?
Mission BBQ offers a variety of dressings, but their potato salad uses a tangy, creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of vinegar for extra flavour.
What are the top five salad dressings?
Some of the top salad dressings include ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, Caesar, blue cheese, and honey mustard. Each brings a unique flavour to salads, and you can experiment with them in your potato salad too.
What is the white sauce at Mission BBQ?
The white sauce at Mission BBQ is often referred to as Alabama white sauce, a creamy, tangy BBQ sauce made with mayo, vinegar, and spices. It adds a delicious twist to meats and sides.
Does Mission BBQ have sweet potatoes?
While Mission BBQ doesn’t typically serve sweet potatoes in their standard menu, they offer a variety of BBQ sides, which you can complement with sweet potatoes if you like.
How to make Barbeque Nation potatoes?
Barbeque Nation potatoes are typically made by roasting or grilling potatoes with a mix of spices and butter, giving them a smoky flavour. Serve them as a delicious side to your BBQ meal.
What is the vinegar at Mission BBQ?
The vinegar at Mission BBQ, often used in their sauces and sides, is usually apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. It’s a key ingredient that adds tanginess and balances out the richness in dishes like potato salad.
Is potato salad healthy?
Potato salad can be part of a balanced diet if enjoyed in moderation. While it’s often made with mayo and sour cream, you can lighten up the recipe by using Greek yogurt or reducing the amount of dressing.
Conclusion
Mission BBQ Potato Salad is more than just a side—it’s the soul of a great BBQ. With creamy mayo, crispy bacon, and that mustardy tang, this easy-to-make dish adds bold flavour to any summer meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or just want to recreate a restaurant-style favourite, this recipe delivers every single time. Try it once, and it might just become the star of your BBQ spread!
Loved the tangy flavor and creamy texture!
Thanks, Emma! So glad you enjoyed it!
Easy recipe and the bacon was perfect!
Thanks, Jack! Bacon always makes it better!
Great recipe! Will make again for sure.
Thanks, Maya! Happy to hear that!