Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of baked potatoes, you’ll adore this Loaded Baked Potato Salad. It’s packed with the same comforting flavors, including crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives, but with the creamy texture of a potato salad. The best part? It’s served cold, making it the ideal side dish for summer gatherings or as a make-ahead meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings or variations!

Ingredients

6 medium-sized potatoes
4 slices of bacon
1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 12-15 minutes or until they are tender but still firm. Once done, drain and set aside to cool completely.
While the potatoes are cooling, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat, crumble the bacon, and set it aside.
Once the potatoes have cooled, peel them (if desired) and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Add the chopped potatoes and crumbled bacon to the bowl. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
If you like a slight tang, add the apple cider vinegar and stir until incorporated.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or additional sour cream if desired.
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including refrigeration)

Variations

Baked Potato Salad with Ranch: Add a packet of ranch seasoning mix to the dressing for a flavorful twist.
Vegan Option: Replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives like plant-based mayo and dairy-free sour cream. Use crispy tempeh or plant-based bacon instead of regular bacon.
Herb-Infused Potato Salad: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to the dressing for extra freshness.
Add Vegetables: Mix in some diced red bell pepper or celery for an extra crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Loaded Baked Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Since this salad is best served cold, it’s not recommended to reheat it. Just enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This dish can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use other types of potatoes for this salad?

Yes, any waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well in this recipe as they hold their shape after boiling.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided the bacon and other ingredients do not contain gluten.

4. How do I make the potatoes soft but not mushy?

Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender but still firm. Overcooking them can make them too mushy for this salad.

5. Can I skip the bacon?

Yes, if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, you can skip the bacon or replace it with plant-based bacon.

6. How can I make this salad spicier?

For a spicy kick, you can add jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

7. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to make the salad a little healthier while still keeping it creamy.

9. How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?

The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork or knife when they are fully cooked, but they should still hold their shape and not fall apart.

10. Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with extra sour cream or use a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something hearty and comforting, this potato salad hits all the right notes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that everyone will enjoy!