Loaded Baked Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and joy, you’ve come to the right place! This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a delightful twist on a classic steakhouse favorite, making it perfect for everything from family gatherings to busy weeknights. The creamy dressing combined with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese creates a dish everyone will love. I can’t tell you how many times this salad has been the star of our potlucks!

What makes this recipe even more special is its flexibility. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s always a hit at parties or BBQs. Plus, it’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of a loaded baked potato without all the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this delicious salad ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about the flavors in this loaded baked potato salad.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It’s perfect for meal prep! Just whip it up ahead of time and let it chill before serving.
• Customizable: You can easily switch out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—this dish is comfort food at its best!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are easy to find and will make your Loaded Baked Potato Salad truly memorable.

For the Salad

• 4 pounds russet potatoes
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 12 ounces bacon (cooked, cooled and chopped)
• 6 green onions (chopped)
• 1 1/2 cups medium cheddar cheese (shredded)

Variations

One of the joys of this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is its versatility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use crispy turkey bacon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or celery for added crunch and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a different twist!
• Make it spicy: Mix in some jalapeños or hot sauce for those who love a kick!

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400° F. Place your cleaned russet potatoes on a baking sheet and pierce them several times with a fork. Lightly coat them with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Baking them until tender ensures that they have that fluffy texture we love in potato salad. Once they’re cooked through (about 50-60 minutes), cool them slightly before peeling and chopping into chunks.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

While your potatoes are cooling, cook your bacon until it’s nice and crispy. You can do this in a skillet or bake it in the oven—whatever works best for you! Once cooled, crumble it into bite-size pieces. The crispy bacon adds such great flavor to our salad.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Add in the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This creamy dressing is what ties all the delicious elements together!

Step 4: Combine Everything

When your potatoes have cooled down enough to handle, transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Pour that tasty dressing over them along with the crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together so that every piece gets coated with that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Once everything is mixed well, cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (or overnight if you can wait!). This resting time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

And there you have it! A fantastic Loaded Baked Potato Salad that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply enjoyed at home. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Creating the perfect Loaded Baked Potato Salad is all about a few simple tricks that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some pro tips to ensure your salad becomes a crowd favorite!

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal because they become fluffy and tender when baked, giving your salad the perfect creamy base.
• Let potatoes cool slightly before mixing: Allowing the potatoes to cool down after baking helps them absorb the tangy apple cider vinegar without getting mushy.
• Opt for freshly cooked bacon: Using freshly cooked and crumbled bacon adds texture and a rich, smoky flavor. Pre-packaged bacon can sometimes lack that homemade taste.
• Customize your dressing: Feel free to mix in other herbs or spices into the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture, such as garlic powder or dill, to give your salad a unique twist.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 3 hours (or overnight) lets all those wonderful flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Presenting your Loaded Baked Potato Salad beautifully can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, here are some ideas on how to serve it.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds color but also brings a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the salad.
• Extra shredded cheese: A handful of additional cheddar cheese on top just before serving adds an inviting look and extra cheesiness that everyone loves!

Side Dishes

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of potato salad, adding a delightful crunch and summertime feel.
• Classic Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw offers a nice contrast to the richness of the potato salad while contributing vibrant colors to your plate.
• Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini bring freshness and a lightness that balances out heavier dishes at any gathering.
• Baked Chicken Thighs: Seasoned baked chicken thighs provide protein that complements the flavors in your potato salad without overshadowing them—perfect for a hearty meal!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Loaded Baked Potato Salad will not only taste amazing but will also look stunning on any table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it stores well, making it a fantastic side dish for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• This recipe is not recommended for freezing due to the creamy dressing and texture of the potatoes.
• If you must freeze, consider storing just the cooked potatoes separately.

Reheating

• If served cold, simply remove from the fridge and stir gently before serving.
• For a warm option, you can reheat in the microwave. Use short bursts at medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Salad without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with crispy chickpeas or smoked tofu for a tasty alternative while keeping that savory flavor.

How long can I store Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

You can store your Loaded Baked Potato Salad in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

What variations can I try with Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Feel free to add extras like diced bell peppers, olives, or even jalapeños for added flavor and crunch!

Is Loaded Baked Potato Salad suitable for potlucks?

Yes! This dish is a crowd-pleaser and travels well. Just be sure to keep it chilled until serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Loaded Baked Potato Salad as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that adds a delightful twist to your gatherings or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or ingredients too! Enjoy each bite and share this comforting dish with those you love—it’s sure to become a favorite!