Welcome to a recipe that transforms the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato into a creamy, savory salad that’s perfect for any occasion—Loaded Baked Potato Salad. This dish combines tender russet potatoes with tangy sour cream, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a delightful side dish that’s sure to impress at any barbecue, picnic, or family dinner. Follow along to make this delicious and crowd-pleasing potato salad that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lb. bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Place the cubed russet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
- Add a pinch of kosher salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
- While the potatoes are cooling, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
- Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, finely chopped yellow onion, and fresh chives.
- Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, leaving a little aside for garnish.
- Add a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Once the potatoes have cooled completely, add them to the mixing bowl with the dressing.
- Gently toss the potatoes with the dressing until they are evenly coated.
- Fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the potato salad to a serving dish.
- Garnish with the reserved shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooled before mixing them with the dressing to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Bacon: For extra flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon.
- Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the dressing by adding more sour cream or mayonnaise as desired.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes? A: While russet potatoes work best due to their texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q: How long can I store this potato salad? A: Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this potato salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the salad? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or even jalapeños for an extra kick.
Q: Is this salad suitable for a picnic? A: Yes, but keep it chilled and avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Variations
Classic Potato Salad
- Replace the sour cream with more mayonnaise.
- Omit the cheddar cheese and bacon.
- Add 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard for a tangy flavor.
Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
- Substitute the sour cream with ranch dressing.
- Add extra bacon and 1 cup of diced celery for crunch.
Loaded Sweet Potato Salad
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes.
- Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans for a sweet and nutty twist.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly adaptation:
- Substitute the russet potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Ensure the bacon is sugar-free and the cheddar cheese is full-fat.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs:
- Substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Use a combination of low-fat sour cream and Greek yogurt to reduce the calorie content.
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of a classic potato salad and the bold flavors of a loaded baked potato. Perfect for any gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the variations, you’ll end up with a tasty and satisfying side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful recipe!
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