Loaded Baked Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Loaded Baked Potato Salad. It’s creamy, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying! This recipe transforms the classic steakhouse favorite into a delightful salad that’s perfect for potlucks, backyard barbecues, or even a cozy family dinner at home. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

What makes this Loaded Baked Potato Salad extra special is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up in advance and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. So whether you’re feeding a hungry group or just treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This salad comes together with minimal effort. Just bake the potatoes, mix the ingredients, and you’re done!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the combination of flavors—from creamy dressing to crispy bacon.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it hours or even a day ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cheese, scallions, and tangy dressing creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is super simple. These wholesome items are probably already in your pantry or fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 best things about this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is its versatility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add some veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Swap the protein: If bacon isn’t your thing, try using cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the mayo and sour cream with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version everyone can enjoy.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in paprika for a kick of heat!

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. This helps steam escape while they bake. Lightly coat them with olive oil and sprinkle kosher salt over the top before placing them in the oven for 50-60 minutes. They should be tender when pierced with a skewer.

Step 2: Cool and Chop

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. When they’re cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Don’t worry if they crumble a bit; that adds character! As they cool further, sprinkle them with apple cider vinegar—this adds flavor while they rest.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

While your potatoes are cooling, cook your bacon until crispy either in a skillet or in the oven. Once done, drain it well on paper towels and let it cool before crumbling it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mix Your Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Season this mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for that perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

When your potatoes are fully cooled, pour that creamy dressing over them along with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together until well mixed. Taste it—feel free to add more salt or pepper as needed!

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Transfer your Loaded Baked Potato Salad into an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least three hours (or overnight if possible). This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully. Remember—this salad keeps well in the fridge for up to four days!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this fantastic side dish at your next gathering or just as a comforting meal at home!

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Creating the perfect loaded baked potato salad is all about technique and a few handy tips that can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes, as their starchy texture becomes fluffy when baked, making them ideal for this salad.
• Let the potatoes cool slightly before dressing: This helps prevent the dressing from becoming too thin and ensures it clings beautifully to the potato chunks.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly!
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator enhances the flavors as they meld together, making every bite more delicious.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter salad, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will give you a tangy twist while cutting down on calories!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Loaded baked potato salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color and freshness on top of your salad.
• Extra cheese: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar or crumbled cheese on top just before serving for a cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complements the richness of the potato salad while adding a smoky flavor.
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potato dish.
• Corn on the cob: Juicy corn on the cob brushed with olive oil and seasoned with herbs makes for a delightful summer pairing that balances out rich flavors.
• Roasted chicken: Juicy roasted chicken marinated in your favorite spices can be a hearty main dish that pairs wonderfully with this side, making it perfect for any potluck or family gathering.

By incorporating these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everyone raving about your loaded baked potato salad! Enjoy every moment spent cooking and sharing this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic recipe for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover potato salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you notice any excess liquid after a day or two, gently stir before serving.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad if needed.
• Transfer the salad to a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• This salad is typically served cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer it warm, you can briefly microwave individual portions until just warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Salad.

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing this potato salad a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for sour cream in Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

You can use Greek yogurt as a perfect alternative to sour cream. It provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture without sacrificing taste!

How long does Loaded Baked Potato Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Enjoy it as leftovers throughout the week!

Can I customize the ingredients in Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even different types of cheese for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Loaded Baked Potato Salad as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together all those classic flavors we love. Whether it’s for a potluck or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!