Name: Classic Bologna Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound bologna, finely diced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1/4 cup finely diced onion; 1/4 cup finely diced celery; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: hard-boiled eggs, sliced, for garnish; Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Classic Bologna Salad Recipe

This bologna salad is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its creamy texture and tangy, savory flavor. It requires minimal ingredients, is budget-friendly, and can be prepared in advance. Whether served as a sandwich filling, with crackers, or as a side dish, it’s a versatile recipe that brings back old-fashioned charm.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound bologna, finely diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1/4 cup finely diced onion
1/4 cup finely diced celery
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: hard-boiled eggs, sliced, for garnish
Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Bologna: Finely dice the bologna into small, even pieces.
Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, onion, and celery until well combined.
Combine Ingredients: Add the diced bologna to the dressing mixture.
Toss to Coat: Gently mix until the bologna is fully coated with the dressing.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Serve: Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs and chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Dill Flavor: Substitute dill relish for sweet relish for a tangier version.
Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for added richness.
Low-Carb: Serve in lettuce cups instead of bread or crackers.
Egg Salad Hybrid: Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover bologna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the mayonnaise may change.
Serve chilled directly from the fridge—no reheating needed.

FAQs

What kind of bologna works best for this salad?

Use classic beef or pork bologna for the most traditional flavor, but turkey bologna works as a lighter option.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made a few hours ahead so the flavors can blend.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can use plant-based deli slices as a substitute for bologna, though the flavor will differ.

Can I use a food processor to chop the bologna?

Yes, pulsing the bologna in a food processor makes prep even faster, just don’t over-process it into a paste.

What can I serve with bologna salad?

It goes great with crackers, on sandwich bread, in wraps, or even with fresh veggies.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, but keep in mind Miracle Whip has a sweeter, tangier flavor that will change the taste.

How long can bologna salad sit out at a picnic?

No more than 2 hours at room temperature. Keep it chilled to stay safe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The salad itself is gluten-free, but check labels on your bologna and condiments to be sure.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped pickles for extra crunch and color.

Can I freeze bologna salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, which may separate upon thawing.

Conclusion

This classic bologna salad is a quick, tasty, and nostalgic dish that’s perfect for a variety of meals and occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a sandwich spread or a side, it delivers familiar comfort with every bite. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen.