Loaded Baked Potato Salad takes all the delicious flavors of a loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions—and combines them into a creamy, comforting potato salad. This dish is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or as a side for any family dinner. It’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup diced pickles (for tanginess)
- 1/2 cup diced celery (for crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese (for added cheesiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cooled potatoes to the dressing mixture and gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions, being careful not to mash the potatoes.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions for a beautiful presentation.
Cook Notes
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are great for this recipe, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which hold their shape well after boiling.
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture. You can use pre-cooked bacon bits as a time-saving alternative.
- Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or replace part of it with Greek yogurt for added tanginess and creaminess.
Variations
- Spicy Loaded Potato Salad: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Potato Salad: Mix in a little BBQ sauce to the dressing for a smoky, tangy flavor.
- Ranch Potato Salad: Substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with 1 cup of ranch dressing for a ranch-flavored twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Yes! This potato salad tastes even better when made ahead of time, as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well in this recipe because they hold their shape after boiling and have a creamy texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using smaller potatoes.
Can I make this salad healthier?
To lighten up the salad, use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and reduced-fat cheese.
What can I serve with loaded baked potato salad?
This salad is perfect alongside grilled meats, such as burgers, steak, or chicken. It also pairs well with BBQ ribs or pulled pork, making it a great addition to any summer BBQ or picnic.
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a creamy, indulgent side dish that combines all the best parts of a loaded baked potato in salad form. With crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and plenty of cheddar cheese, this salad is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Make it ahead of time for an easy and delicious dish that everyone will love!
