Creamy and Hearty Loaded Baked Potato Salad

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is the perfect side dish for any gathering, blending the creamy richness of potatoes with the smoky crunch of bacon. The addition of sharp cheddar and fresh green onions creates a beautifully balanced dish.

It’s so easy to make, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or bringing a dish to a potluck, this Loaded Baked Potato Salad will stand out as a flavorful and satisfying addition to the table. It’s simple, comforting, and the ultimate crowd favorite!

Full Recipe:

• 2 pounds red potatoes

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and allow the potatoes to cool slightly.

2. While the potatoes cool, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly.

5. Add the bacon, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley to the bowl. Stir to combine and season with more salt and pepper to taste.

6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Recipe Overview

The Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a classic dish that effortlessly combines the best of comfort food and fresh flavors. It’s everything you love about a traditional baked potato, but served in a convenient, creamy salad form. With tender red potatoes, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from backyard BBQs to family dinners, making it the perfect addition to your next spread. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—yet the combination of flavors creates a side dish that’s anything but ordinary.

History and Origin

Potato salad is a beloved dish in many cultures, with variations found across the world, particularly in Western cuisine. The origins of the potato salad can be traced back to Europe, with early versions being made with potatoes, vinegar, and herbs. Over time, the dish evolved, especially in the United States, where mayonnaise became the signature binding ingredient. The loaded baked potato salad, specifically, takes inspiration from the iconic baked potato dish, which is a staple in American cuisine. With the classic topping combination of sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives, it takes the comforting baked potato and transforms it into a dish that is just as suitable for a holiday feast as it is for a casual picnic.

While the exact origin of this variation is unclear, its appeal is undeniable—offering all the indulgence of a baked potato but with a more shareable, picnic-friendly presentation. The incorporation of mayonnaise and sour cream makes it a creamy, indulgent option, while the bacon and cheddar offer that familiar, comforting taste.

Variations and Adaptations

The beauty of the Loaded Baked Potato Salad lies in how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for Greek yogurt or a low-fat alternative. For a healthier twist, consider adding in some crunchy veggies like celery or carrots to give the salad a bit of freshness and extra texture.

For those who love bold flavors, you could incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce to add a spicy kick to the dish. Some versions even use ranch dressing in place of the mayonnaise, giving it an extra creamy texture with a herby note. Another fun variation would be to use a mix of different cheeses—like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack—if you’re looking for a slightly different flavor profile.

In terms of serving styles, this salad can be served chilled, making it perfect for summer BBQs or as a side dish at potlucks. For an even more indulgent twist, top the salad with extra crumbled bacon or add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for an extra crunch.

Nutritional Information

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a rich and satisfying side dish, though it’s important to enjoy it in moderation if you’re watching your calorie intake. With 320 kcal per serving, it’s a higher-calorie option, mostly from the potatoes, sour cream, mayonnaise, and bacon. However, potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6.

The dish also provides a fair amount of protein, thanks to the bacon and cheddar, which adds up to around 8 grams per serving. The creamy dressing adds fat, mostly from the mayonnaise and sour cream, contributing to a satisfying texture. For those interested in macronutrients, this recipe is relatively balanced but might be considered indulgent for those looking for lower-fat options.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, such as barbecued chicken, ribs, or burgers. The richness of the salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled foods beautifully.

If you’re serving it at a potluck or BBQ, consider pairing it with some freshly grilled corn on the cob or a simple green salad to balance out the richness. A crisp, tangy coleslaw can also make a great contrast to the creaminess of the potato salad.

For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer works perfectly with this hearty dish. Its richness pairs nicely with something refreshing, offering a great balance of flavors for a casual gathering.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Loaded Baked Potato Salad turns out perfectly, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Cook the potatoes until just tender: You don’t want the potatoes to be too soft and mushy, so keep an eye on them while boiling. They should be easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart.

• Cool the potatoes before mixing: Letting the potatoes cool a bit before adding them to the dressing will help prevent the dressing from becoming too runny.

• Bacon for extra crunch: For a bit of extra texture, make sure your bacon is crispy. You can even bake it for an evenly crispy result.

• Let it chill: Potato salads taste better when allowed to chill for at least an hour in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives you the perfect creamy consistency.

Potential Health Benefits

While this recipe is indulgent and high in calories, it does offer some potential health benefits thanks to its simple, whole food ingredients. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle and nerve function. They are also rich in antioxidants, particularly in the skin, which help reduce inflammation and fight free radicals. The addition of bacon provides protein, while the green onions and parsley offer vitamins A and C.

If you substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream for lighter or plant-based options, you can reduce the fat content, making it more suitable for those on a low-fat or dairy-free diet. Keep in mind, moderation is key when enjoying this delicious side!

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a must-try for any gathering, offering a comforting and hearty side dish that’s sure to become a crowd favorite. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ or a casual family dinner, it’s the perfect way to elevate your meal with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this dish brings the best of both worlds—a classic baked potato in salad form. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation!