Description
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Ingredients
2 lbs baby potatoes, quartered
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
Garnish with more cheddar, bacon, green onions, and parsley if desired.
Chill for 30 minutes before serving or enjoy it immediately!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed method. Start by thoroughly washing your baby potatoes. After quartering them, ensure the pieces are roughly uniform for even cooking. When boiling, start with cold, salted water to season the potatoes from within. Test for doneness with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy. Draining them well is crucial—let them sit in the colander for 5-10 minutes and even spread them on a tray to release steam, preventing a watery salad. While they cool, prepare the dressing. Whisk the sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings until completely smooth. Gently fold in the warm (not hot) potatoes, which helps them absorb the dressing. Finally, add the cheese, bacon, and green onions, reserving some for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as the star side dish at summer barbecues alongside grilled chicken or burgers. For a hearty meal, serve it as a main course with a simple green salad. It’s also the perfect take-along for potlucks and picnics. For an elegant twist, serve it in individual small bowls or hollowed-out baked potato skins, garnished with an extra sprinkle of chives and a dollop of sour cream.
How-to Summary
Quarter and boil potatoes until tender, then cool. Mix sour cream, mayo, and seasonings for the dressing. Gently combine potatoes with dressing. Fold in cheese, bacon, and green onions. Garnish and chill before serving for best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.
What’s the best substitute for mayonnaise? Greek yogurt is an excellent, tangy substitute for all or part of the mayo. It lightens the dish while maintaining creaminess.
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative for their buttery texture and flavor. Russets can be used but may become mealy; avoid overcooking them.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The potatoes will continue to absorb the dressing, so you may want to stir in a small splash of milk to refresh the creaminess before serving again.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Easily. Omit the bacon and consider adding a smoky element like a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped, pan-fried smoked tofu as a replacement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the cheese while the potatoes are piping hot, as it will melt into a greasy mess. Ensure potatoes are cooled slightly but still warm for optimal dressing absorption. Do not overcook the potatoes to a mushy consistency. Skipping the chilling time is another common error; the 30-minute rest allows the flavors to combine properly. Finally, do not under-season the boiling water or the dressing, as potatoes require a good amount of salt.
Conclusion
This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, transforming classic baked potato flavors into a shareable, creamy side dish. Its combination of rich cheese, smoky bacon, and cool, tangy dressing is irresistibly delicious. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a perfect dish every time. Whether for a casual family dinner or a large gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to earn rave reviews and become a staple in your recipe collection.