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Loaded Baked Potato Salad

loaded baked potato salad - featured image

A comforting and easy potato salad featuring baked potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 34 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley, optional garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 12-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While potatoes cook, fry the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the warm potatoes with the dressing, coating each piece without mashing. Add the crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Toss lightly to distribute evenly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
  6. Serve immediately while slightly warm or refrigerate for 1-2 hours for a chilled version.
  7. Just before serving, garnish with fresh chives or parsley.

Notes

Do not overcook potatoes; they should be tender but hold their shape. Let potatoes steam dry after draining to help dressing cling better. Cook bacon over medium heat for best crispness and flavor. Fold ingredients gently to avoid mashing potatoes. Salad can be served warm or chilled. If dry after chilling, stir in extra sour cream or mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, baked potato salad, loaded potato salad, bacon cheddar salad, comfort food, side dish, picnic recipe