Loaded Baked Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering, then this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is just what you need! This delightful recipe takes the classic steakhouse favorite and transforms it into a creamy, hearty salad that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family reunions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and rich cheese in a tangy dressing, making it irresistible!

What I love most about this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is how simple it is to prepare. It’s great for potlucks, picnics, or just as a side dish to elevate your dinner. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, which means less stress when hosting friends or family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses straightforward techniques. You’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this loaded potato goodness. It’s comforting and familiar—the perfect combo!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this salad up to a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit in the fridge!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• Delicious Flavor: With every bite, you’ll experience the creamy richness of the dressing paired with the smokiness of bacon—pure bliss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Salad. Each component contributes to the wonderful flavors you’ll enjoy in this dish!

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

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these easy variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try crispy turkey bacon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or diced tomatoes for an extra crunch and pop of color.
• Change up the cheese: Use your favorite cheese—pepper jack for spice or feta for a tangy twist could be delightful!
• Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400° F. Place cleaned potatoes on a baking sheet and pierce them 4-5 times with a fork. Lightly coat them with olive oil and sprinkle kosher salt over them. Baking at high heat helps achieve that fluffy texture inside while keeping the skin nice and crisp. Cook for 50-60 minutes until easily pierced with a cake tester or skewer. Once done, let them cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

When they are cool enough to handle, peel off the jackets and cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Don’t worry if they crumble a bit; that rustic texture adds character! Transfer everything into a large mixing bowl while they are still warm. This warmth helps absorb flavors better.

Step 3: Add Apple Cider Vinegar

While those potatoes are still warm, sprinkle them with apple cider vinegar. This step might seem small but enhances the flavor profile significantly by adding a zesty kick! Let them rest for 15-30 minutes until cooled completely.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet or oven, cook your bacon until crispy. Drain any excess grease and let it cool before crumbling it into bite-sized pieces. The smoky flavor of bacon adds an irresistible touch to our potato salad.

Step 5: Mix Dressing Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This creamy dressing is what ties all of our lovely ingredients together beautifully!

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Once your potatoes have cooled down completely, pour that luscious mayo mixture over them along with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together so that each piece gets coated without mashing those lovely potatoes.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Finally, taste your mixture and adjust seasoning as necessary with more salt and pepper if desired! Cover your salad and refrigerate it for at least three hours (or overnight if you can wait!). Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to blend beautifully together.

And there you have it—a scrumptious Loaded Baked Potato Salad that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy serving this delightful dish at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Making the perfect Loaded Baked Potato Salad is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips! Here are some ways to elevate your dish:

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes for their fluffy texture when baked. They hold up well and create that classic potato salad feel.
• Let the potatoes cool with vinegar: Sprinkling apple cider vinegar over warm potatoes infuses flavor and helps them absorb the dressing better, resulting in a tastier salad.
• Use room temperature ingredients: For a smoother, creamier dressing, allow your mayonnaise and sour cream to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more easily with the potatoes.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to swap out or add various toppings like diced tomatoes or jalapeños for an extra kick. This adds variety and personalizes the dish to your taste!
• Chill before serving: Refrigerating the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it sits (up to overnight), the tastier it will be!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas for presenting it at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Adding parsley or chives on top brightens up the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra cheese sprinkle: A light dusting of shredded cheddar on top just before serving makes it look irresistible and creamy!

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: These tasty skewers add protein and balance out the creamy potato salad with a smoky flavor.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast in texture and is always a hit at gatherings.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn complements the richness of potato salad perfectly, making it a delightful summer side.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover salad on your plate, adding another layer of flavor!

With these ideas in mind, you’re ready to make your Loaded Baked Potato Salad a star player at any meal or gathering! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, making it a convenient side dish for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• If you notice any separation of the dressing, simply give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

• This potato salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it:
• Place the salad in an airtight, freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Note: The texture may change slightly after thawing; it’s best to enjoy it freshly made.

Reheating

• If you prefer your potato salad warm:
• Gently reheat individual servings in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Alternatively, you can warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Be cautious not to overheat, as this may affect the texture of the potatoes and dressing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Salad without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with crispy cooked chickpeas or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version. The salad will still be packed with flavor!

How long does Loaded Baked Potato Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this Loaded Baked Potato Salad will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving!

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Yes! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang while keeping the dish light.

What should I serve with Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

This tasty salad pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, or as part of a potluck spread. It’s versatile enough to complement many main dishes!

Is Loaded Baked Potato Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or serve it at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is not only a delightful twist on a classic favorite but also makes entertaining effortless and fun! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or ingredients that you love. Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy bite!