Loaded Baked Potato Salad
The Loaded Baked Potato Salad takes a classic steakhouse favorite and transforms it into a delightful side dish perfect for any gathering. This creamy, savory salad is packed with flavor and features crispy bacon, rich cheese, and fresh scallions. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for a tasty addition to your dinner table, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this dish up in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a comforting side dish at home.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or oven-safe pan
- Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the potatoes evenly while allowing them to crisp up perfectly.
- Large mixing bowl: Helps you combine all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Skillet or oven-safe pan: Useful for cooking the bacon until it reaches that perfect crispy texture.
Ingredients
For this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 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)
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400° F. This ensures that your russet potatoes roast perfectly.
Step 2: Roast the Potatoes
- Place cleaned potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Pierce each potato 4-5 times with a fork.
- Lightly coat with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Roast in the oven for 50-60 minutes until easily pierced with a cake tester or skewer.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, peel and cut into 1-inch chunks. Discard the potato jackets.
Transfer all potato flesh into a large mixing bowl while still warm. Sprinkle with apple cider vinegar and rest for 15-30 minutes until cooled.
Step 3: Prepare the Bacon
While the potatoes are cooling:
Cook the bacon in a large skillet or in the oven until crispy.
Drain excess grease and allow it to cool before crumbling into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl:
Combine mayonnaise and sour cream.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once potatoes are cool:
Pour the mayonnaise mixture over them along with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Gently fold everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Final Step: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the Loaded Baked Potato Salad for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Enjoy your creamy, loaded salad bursting with flavor!
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or attending a potluck, this salad is sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
At a Barbecue
- Pair with grilled meats for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
As Part of a Potluck
- Offer it in a large bowl, garnished with extra green onions for color.
- Provide small serving cups for easy sharing among guests.
For Family Dinner
- Present it as a side dish to roasted chicken or steak.
- Add some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
As a Lunch Option
- Serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter twist.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced lunch plate.
How to Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Salad
To make your Loaded Baked Potato Salad truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and green onions enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
- Don’t rush cooling: Allow the potatoes to cool properly before mixing; this helps them absorb flavors better.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference before refrigerating.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding jalapeños or diced tomatoes for an extra kick and freshness.
- Make ahead: Prepare your salad up to a day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Garnish before serving: Add fresh herbs or additional cheese just before serving for an appealing presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Loaded Baked Potato Salad pairs well with various side dishes that can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of delicious options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the creaminess of the salad beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing rich flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for an indulgent pairing with every bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies offer nutrition and texture contrast.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans bring sweetness and protein, making the meal more filling.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar provides crispness and enhances the dining experience with its bold flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness and acidity that cuts through richness nicely.
- Deviled Eggs: These savory bites are always a hit at gatherings, adding variety to your spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Loaded Baked Potato Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Overcooking the potatoes: When potatoes are too soft, they can turn mushy in the salad. Cook until just tender for the best texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing potatoes to cool before mixing helps them absorb flavors without becoming too soggy.
- Not seasoning properly: Seasoning the potatoes right after cooking enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Using low-quality bacon: Good bacon adds a lot to your salad’s flavor. Always choose high-quality, thick-cut bacon for the best results.
- Rushing the refrigeration: For maximum flavor, refrigerate your salad for at least three hours or overnight before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Loaded Baked Potato Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it may alter texture and taste.
- If necessary, freeze without dressing and add fresh ingredients upon thawing.
Reheating Loaded Baked Potato Salad
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F and warm covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Loaded Baked Potato Salad that may help you prepare it perfectly.
Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance. The flavors improve after chilling in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative, maintaining a similar creamy texture.
How do I customize my Loaded Baked Potato Salad?
Feel free to add other toppings like jalapeños, olives, or different cheeses for a unique twist!
Is Loaded Baked Potato Salad gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for potlucks and backyard barbecues alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings to make it uniquely yours!
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Loaded Baked Potato Salad, a delightful twist on a classic side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining creamy dressing with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh scallions, this salad is both savory and satisfying. Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners, it’s easy to prepare and even better when made ahead of time. Chill it in the fridge to let the flavors meld and watch it become the star of your meal. With its hearty ingredients and comforting taste, this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is sure to please guests young and old alike.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds russet potatoes
- 12 ounces cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 1/2 cups medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 green onions, chopped
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Roast cleaned russet potatoes on a baking sheet for 50-60 minutes until tender. Let them cool slightly before peeling and chopping into chunks.
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain and crumble.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and sour cream; season with salt and pepper.
- Combine warm potatoes with the dressing, bacon, green onions, and cheese; gently fold together.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
