Old fashioned Georgia cracker salad

Old fashioned Georgia cracker salad is a simple, creamy dish from southeast Georgia, often linked to Paula Deen’s home-style cooking. Made with crushed saltine crackers, juicy garden tomatoes, mayonnaise, and chopped boiled egg, it’s like a salad form of a tomato sandwich. A touch of garlic powder, salt and pepper—especially black pepper—adds flavor to every bite. Salad is best served fresh to keep the crackers crisp and satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Georgia Cracker Salad

Quick Southern Classic: Inspired by the comforting flavors of southeast Georgia and popularized by cooks like Paula Deen, this Georgia cracker salad is the perfect fix when time is tight. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s ideal for hectic evenings, last-minute guests, or backyard gatherings.

Creamy & Crunchy in Every Bite: This simple salad form brings together creamy mayonnaise and crushed saltine crackers to create the ultimate texture contrast. Add in chopped boiled egg and garden tomatoes, and you’ve got a spoonful of Southern satisfaction.

Customizable & Crowd-Pleasing: Want a bit of a twist? Mix in garlic powder, diced bell peppers, or fresh herbs to make it your own. Whether you’re keeping it traditional or adding your own flair, this dish always delivers.

A True Taste of Home: With flavors that echo a classic tomato sandwich, this nostalgic salad deserves a spot in every recipe box. Salad is best served fresh to keep the crackers crisp and the flavors vibrant.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Georgia Cracker Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to capturing the essence of this Southern favorite. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Saltine Crackers – These are the base of the salad, offering that signature crispy texture. Crush them gently just before mixing.
• Mayonnaise – Adds a rich, creamy texture that ties all the ingredients together. Use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free option if preferred.
• Green Onions – Offer mild sharpness and color. Want something milder? Try chopped chives instead.
• Garden Tomatoes – Fresh, juicy tomatoes bring brightness and moisture. Bell peppers can be a crunchy alternative.
• Boiled Egg – Chopped and added for protein and a satisfying richness. Optional if you’re going egg-free.
• Salt and Pepper – Simple seasoning to bring the salad to life. A touch of black pepper adds boldness.
• Garlic Powder – Just a hint rounds out the flavor and gives the dish a savory depth.

How to Make Old Fashioned Georgia Cracker Salad

Making this salad couldn’t be easier—just five simple steps and you’re ready to serve a Southern favorite.

1. Crush the Crackers: Break the saltine crackers into bite-sized pieces. You want texture—not crumbs. These crushed crackers form the foundation of the dish and provide its signature crunch.
2. Add the Creamy Ingredients: Gently fold in mayonnaise, chopped green onions, and diced garden tomatoes. The creamy base blends everything together, while the vegetables add freshness and zing.
3. Stir in the Boiled Egg: Add the chopped boiled egg and mix gently to keep the pieces intact. It brings a hearty feel and subtle flavor that balances the salad beautifully.
4. Season: Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Don’t skip this step—it’s what elevates the flavors from simple to irresistible.
5. Serve Right Away: This Georgia cracker salad is best served immediately after mixing. That’s when the saltines are still crisp, the flavors are bold, and the texture is at its best. it sit too long, the crackers may lose their delightful crispness. So, gather your loved ones and dig in!

Tips for Success

• For maximum crunch, stir in the crushed crackers—especially the saltine crackers—right before serving. This keeps the texture true to its Southern roots.
• Adjust the mayonnaise based on your preferred creaminess. Some like it thick and hearty, while others prefer it light and smooth.
• Chill your Georgia cracker salad for 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors—from the garden tomatoes to the boiled egg—a chance to meld together.
• Add variety by trying different vegetables or herbs. This salad form of a tomato sandwich is endlessly flexible.
• Use the freshest ingredients possible—especially the eggs, tomatoes, and herbs—for the best flavor and texture.

Equipment Needed

• Medium Bowl: A basic mixing bowl works well for tossing everything together. If you’re short on space, a deep plate will do.
• Mixing Spoon: A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is ideal for combining ingredients without breaking the crackers too much.
• Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need these to prep the boiled egg, garden tomatoes, and onions. A sharp kitchen knife makes the job easier.

Variations of Old Fashioned Georgia Cracker Salad

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce for a bold upgrade that pairs well with the mildness of the saltine crackers.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or green onions add depth and freshness, especially in this classic southeast Georgia dish.
• Cheesy Delight: A handful of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta can transform the flavor into something extra creamy and rich.
• Fruit Fusion: Diced apples or grapes offer a sweet contrast to the savory mix—think Southern twist with a modern touch.
• Protein Boost: Swap the boiled egg for cooked chicken, tuna, or even chickpeas for a heartier version that still honors the original spirit of the dish.

Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Georgia Cracker Salad

• Pair your Georgia cracker salad with grilled chicken or pan-seared fish for a simple, satisfying meal.
• Enjoy it alongside a bowl of warm tomato soup—like a deconstructed tomato sandwich experience in two parts.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a bit of black pepper to brighten both the look and flavor.
• A tall glass of sweet iced tea or fresh lemonade makes the perfect Southern-style companion.
• Present in a brightly colored bowl to highlight the mix of garden tomatoes, mayo, and crackers—it’s a visual and flavorful treat.

FAQs

Can I make old fashioned Georgia cracker salad ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can absolutely prep the ingredients in advance. Chop the garden tomatoes, slice the green onions, and prepare the boiled egg ahead of time. Just be sure to keep the crushed crackers—especially the saltine crackers—separate until you’re ready to mix and serve. That way, you’ll preserve the crunch that makes this classic Georgia cracker salad so satisfying.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free alternative to mayo, plain Greek yogurt is a great choice. You can also mash avocado for a creamy texture with a healthy twist. Both options blend well with the garlic powder, salt and pepper, and other ingredients while still honoring the original salad form inspired by the Southern tomato sandwich.

How long does Georgia cracker salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours. The crushed saltine crackers tend to soften quickly once mixed. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container, but know that the texture won’t be as crisp the next day. For best results, salad is best served immediately after preparation.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Yes! This nostalgic southeast Georgia favorite is easy to customize. Try adding chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra crunch. Just be sure to keep the flavor balance right so the black pepper, boiled egg, and creamy base still shine through.

Is Georgia cracker salad vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, it is! This classic dish made famous by Southern cooks like Paula Deen fits into a vegetarian diet. If you’re aiming for a vegan version, simply leave out the boiled egg and use a plant-based mayo alternative. The combination of garden tomatoes, garlic powder, and salt and pepper will still give you that savory Southern flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making old fashioned Georgia cracker salad isn’t just about throwing together a few ingredients—it’s about embracing a tradition rooted in southeast Georgia comfort. Much like the classic tomato sandwich, this salad form brings together familiar flavors like crushed saltine crackers, creamy mayo, chopped boiled egg, and juicy garden tomatoes to create something truly satisfying. Lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, a pinch of garlic powder, and just enough black pepper to round it out, this dish is a reminder that simple food can be deeply meaningful.

Whether you spotted it in a Paula Deen cookbook or grew up with it at family reunions, Georgia cracker salad has earned its place as a staple of Southern tables. It’s best enjoyed fresh—salad is best served right after mixing, while the crackers are still crisp and the flavors bold. Share it with your loved ones, laugh around the table, and enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite of this humble Southern classic.

More Recipes Hungry to Try

If you loved the flavor and simplicity of this old fashioned Georgia cracker salad—a creamy, crunchy favorite from southeast Georgia with roots in Southern kitchens like those of Paula Deen—you’ll definitely enjoy these other Recipes Hungry creations.

• Looking for a hearty bake to serve alongside your cracker salad? Try the Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef. It pairs wonderfully with the familiar textures of crushed crackers and brings another comforting classic to your table.
• For something sweet and refreshing after your creamy salad form of a tomato sandwich, the No-Bake Pineapple Dream Dessert is a tropical, fuss-free treat that balances savory flavors beautifully.
• The Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is another cool side dish that highlights the bright, juicy taste of garden tomatoes—one of the key ingredients that make Georgia cracker salad so satisfying.
• If you’re entertaining or serving a crowd, the Best Fruit Dip adds a sweet touch to your spread. It’s a great contrast to the salt and pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper found in more savory recipes.
• And finally, don’t miss the Tomato Cracker Salad Recipe—a close cousin to Georgia cracker salad. It’s packed with familiar Southern flavors like crushed saltine crackers, boiled egg, and that nostalgic blend of creamy mayonnaise and crisp textures.

Whether you’re building a full Southern meal or just experimenting with classic comfort foods, these Recipes Hungry picks keep the flavor going strong—just like salad is best served: fresh, simple, and full of heart.