Description
Warm Bacon Cheddar Potato Salad
Ingredients
2 lbs baby potatoes (halved)
6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 green onions (sliced)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for 10-12 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble.
In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Combine warm potatoes with the creamy mixture, bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
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
1. Prepare the Potatoes: Place halved baby potatoes in a large pot of cold, generously salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes until easily pierced with a fork. Drain immediately.
2. Cook the Bacon: While potatoes cook, arrange bacon slices in a single layer in a cold skillet. Cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until uniformly crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth.
4. Combine While Warm: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the warm, drained potatoes with the creamy dressing. The warmth helps the potatoes absorb the flavor.
5. Add Mix-Ins & Serve: Fold in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and most of the sliced green onions. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with remaining green onions and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty salad is the ultimate comfort side. Serve it warm alongside grilled steak, burgers, or roasted chicken. For a summer barbecue, it pairs perfectly with pulled pork sandwiches or grilled sausages. To balance its richness, consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette.
How-to Summary
Boil salted baby potatoes until tender. Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. Whisk sour cream, mayo, Dijon, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Gently combine warm potatoes with dressing, bacon, cheddar, and green onions. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture and flavor, prepare components separately. Combine while the potatoes are still warm just before serving to prevent a gluey texture.
Can I use a different type of potato? Absolutely. Yukon Golds are an excellent substitute, cut into 1-inch chunks. Avoid starchy russets, as they can become mushy.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the dressing has thickened too much.
Is there a substitute for sour cream? Greek yogurt is a great tangy substitute. For a richer option, use full-fat crème fraîche.
Can I add other ingredients? Definitely! Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the dressing, or mix in some diced celery or pickles for extra crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: This leads to a mushy salad. Test for doneness a minute early.
- Combining When Cold: The magic is in combining while the potatoes are warm, allowing them to soak up the dressing.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Shred your own cheddar for a smoother melt.
- Skimping on Bacon Fat: For extra flavor, reserve a tablespoon of the warm bacon fat and whisk it into the dressing.
Conclusion
This Warm Bacon Cheddar Potato Salad transforms a classic picnic side into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and melted cheese with tender potatoes is irresistibly comforting. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a standout side that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying warmth of this ultimate comfort food.