Hey there, friend! If you’re in the mood for something nostalgic, comforting, and oh-so-tasty, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Bologna Salad recipe isn’t just any salad—it’s a true blast from the past, a dish that’s been passed down through generations and brings a little warmth and joy to any table. The combination of crunchy veggies, creamy dressing, and savory bologna is seriously delicious. And trust me, you’re going to love how simple it is to make. You might just find yourself making it for every family gathering from now on!
Why You’ll Love Bologna Salad
This recipe isn’t just about making something tasty—it’s about the memories that come with it. Whether you’re preparing this for a cozy family dinner, serving it at a potluck, or indulging in a bit of comfort food by yourself, Bologna Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Here’s why I think it’ll quickly become one of your favorites:
Versatile
This salad is a star whether you’re making it for a casual meal or bringing it to a party. Picture this: a warm summer evening, a cold drink in hand, and this salad on the table—everyone is going to ask for the recipe. It’s versatile and always a crowd-pleaser!
Budget-Friendly
You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just a few simple, everyday ingredients. It’s affordable and easy, which makes it perfect for those times when you want something hearty without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy
If you’re someone who likes a straightforward recipe, you’re in luck. This one’s got your back! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious salad in no time. No complicated techniques or long hours in the kitchen—just pure, simple goodness.
Customizable
The best part? You can make this salad your own! Want to add a little extra crunch? Throw in some celery. Prefer a slightly sweeter touch? Add a bit more relish. You can even swap out the bologna for another deli meat—this recipe is flexible, and it’s all about making it perfect for you.
Crowd-Pleasing
It’s one of those recipes that works for everyone, young or old. The mix of flavors is just the right balance of savory, sweet, and tangy, making it the ideal addition to any table. This one is always a hit!

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Ingredients in Bologna Salad
Okay, let’s talk ingredients! It’s the kind of salad that uses everyday pantry staples to create something truly mouthwatering. Here’s the rundown:
Bologna: The star of the show! The smooth, savory slices of bologna give this salad its signature flavor. You can also go for a turkey version if you prefer a lighter take.
Mayonnaise: For that creamy base. It’s smooth, rich, and ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Pickles: A bit of tang and crunch. Pickles add that delightful bite that balances the creamy mayo perfectly.
Onions: A little sharpness and sweetness, depending on how finely you chop them. They bring just the right amount of depth to the salad.
Mustard: A dollop of mustard adds a slight tang that cuts through the creaminess and gives the salad a little zing.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These bring richness and protein to the mix, adding a creamy texture that rounds everything out.
Celery: Optional but so worth it if you want an extra crunch.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Now let’s get into how you can make this easy, delicious salad! It’s simple, and every step is a breeze:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by chopping up your bologna into small cubes, about bite-sized pieces. You can also chop your pickles, onions, and celery if you’re using them—get all the veggies ready and set them aside. Slice those hard-boiled eggs into nice little pieces.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, mix your mayonnaise, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it until everything is nice and creamy. This is where you can adjust things—add a bit more mustard if you like a little more zing or throw in some extra pickle juice if you want a tangier kick.
Step 3: Combine
Now, add in the chopped bologna, eggs, pickles, onions, and celery. Stir everything together, making sure the dressing coats everything evenly. You want every piece to be perfectly dressed, with a little mayo on every bite!
Step 4: Chill
Pop the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this helps all those delicious flavors come together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s chilled, give it one last stir, then serve it up. Enjoy with some crackers, on a bed of lettuce, or just straight from the bowl! Either way, it’s a hit.
How to Serve Bologna Salad
Now that you’ve made this delicious salad, here are some great ways to enjoy it:
With Crackers
Serve this salad with your favorite crackers for a crunchy pairing. It’s simple, but so satisfying.
On a Sandwich
Spread this on a soft roll or sandwich bread for a quick and filling meal. It makes a fantastic lunch!
As a Side Dish
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, BBQ, or any comfort food. It’s the perfect side dish for a warm-weather meal.
On a Bed of Lettuce
If you want a lighter take, serve it over some fresh greens. The crunch of the lettuce contrasts perfectly with the creamy salad.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can easily make this salad the night before to save time on busy days.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you want a bit more heat.
- Dietary Adjustments: You can make this salad with a lighter mayo or use a plant-based mayo to make it dairy-free.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It gets even better after sitting for a while!
- Double the Batch: If you’re expecting a crowd, feel free to double the recipe—this salad never lasts long!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute bologna with another deli meat?
A1: Absolutely! You can use turkey, ham, or even chicken—whatever you prefer.
Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: Yes! It’s perfect to make ahead. Just store it in the fridge and let the flavors develop overnight.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this salad?
A4: Freezing is not recommended due to the mayo and eggs, but leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge.
Q5: Can I use a light mayo?
A5: Of course! If you want to cut down on calories, you can use light mayo or a healthier alternative.
Q6: Can I add other veggies?
A6: Yes! Feel free to get creative with some additional veggies like bell peppers or olives.
Q7: How do I make this salad spicier?
A7: Add a little cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give it a nice spicy kick!
Conclusion
Bologna Salad is one of those simple, yet nostalgic dishes that always hits the spot. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re craving comfort food, looking for something quick to whip up, or just want to add a bit of retro flair to your meal, this salad is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
PrintBologna Salad (Old Recipe)
This classic Old-Fashioned Bologna Salad is a creamy, hearty spread made with bologna, hard-boiled eggs, pickle relish, and mayonnaise. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a spread for your next picnic or gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None (no cooking required)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings (depending on serving size) 1x
- Category: Salad, Spread
- Method: Blending/Processing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
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1 pound of bologna
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3 hard-boiled eggs
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1/4 cup pickle relish
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1 cup mayonnaise
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(Optional) Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Add bologna and hard-boiled eggs to a food processor or blender. Pulse until roughly chopped.
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Pour the bologna/egg mixture into a bowl and add pickle relish and mayonnaise.
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Stir until well combined.
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For cheese lovers, add shredded cheddar cheese and stir in.
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Serve the bologna salad on bread, toast, or with crackers.
Notes
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This bologna salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
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If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture less in the food processor.
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Feel free to adjust the amount of relish and mayonnaise based on your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 115mg