Loaded Baked Potato Salad

The Loaded Baked Potato Salad combines the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato with the convenience of a salad. This delightful dish is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings. It features creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and melted cheese that will impress your guests. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course on warm days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of bacon, cheese, and scallions creates a rich and delicious flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, this salad works well with various meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this Loaded Baked Potato Salad in advance, letting the flavors meld overnight for even better taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the making of your Loaded Baked Potato Salad, gather these essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Fork
• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet (or oven)
• Small bowl
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: This allows even cooking of the potatoes in the oven.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Perfect for cooking bacon until crispy, adding great texture to your salad.

Ingredients

The steakhouse favorite gets a potluck makeover to become this easy baked potato salad recipe loaded with bacon, cheese, and scallions in a sour cream and mayo dressing.

For the Potatoes

• 4 pounds russet potatoes
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

For the Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Mix-Ins

• 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 the oven to 400° F.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

• Place cleaned potatoes on a baking sheet and pierce 4-5 times with a fork.
• Lightly coat with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes or until easily pierced with a cake tester or skewer.
• Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

When cool enough to handle:
1. Peel the potatoes and cut into 1-inch chunks, discarding the potato jackets.
2. Transfer potato flesh to a large mixing bowl.
3. While still warm, sprinkle potatoes with apple cider vinegar; let rest for 15-30 minutes until cooled.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Meanwhile:
Cook bacon in a large skillet or in the oven until crispy.
Drain and let cool, then crumble into bite-size pieces.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Mix mayonnaise and sour cream.
2. Season with kosher salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

When potatoes are cool:
1. Pour mayonnaise mixture over potatoes along with crumbled bacon, green onions, and cheddar cheese.
2. Gently fold together until well combined.
3. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or up to overnight before serving. Enjoy this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Salad within four days!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in many creative ways. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a casual dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• A hearty option: Serve it as a main dish alongside grilled chicken or steak for a filling meal.

With Grilled Meats

• Perfect pairing: Loaded Baked Potato Salad goes wonderfully with grilled meats like burgers or ribs, enhancing the smoky flavors.

At Potlucks and Parties

• Crowd-pleaser: Bring this salad to gatherings where it can shine as a comforting side that everyone loves.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Creative twist: For a lighter option, serve the potato salad in crisp lettuce wraps for easy, handheld bites.

As a Dip

• Fun appetizer: Transform it into a dip by serving with tortilla chips or pita bread for a casual snack.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Salad

To achieve the best Loaded Baked Potato Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your salad turns out creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality bacon make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference; every batch of potatoes can vary in flavor absorption.
• Cool potatoes properly: Allowing the potatoes to cool before mixing helps them absorb the dressing better without becoming mushy.
• Let it chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least three hours; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like jalapeños or diced tomatoes for added flavor and color.

Best Side Dishes for Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is versatile enough to pair with numerous side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch and is perfect for summer barbecues.
2. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw balances the creaminess of the potato salad beautifully.
3. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread enhances any meal, making it feel more indulgent.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies offers a healthy contrast and colorful presentation on your plate.
5. Caprese Salad: The refreshing taste of basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes provides a light counterpart to the rich potato salad.
6. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are always a hit and complement the flavors of loaded baked potato salad nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Loaded Baked Potato Salad, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the potatoes to cool after baking helps them absorb flavors and maintain their texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Overcooking the potatoes: Be careful not to overbake; soggy potatoes can ruin the salad’s consistency. Test with a fork to ensure they’re just right.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your Loaded Baked Potato Salad relies heavily on quality ingredients, especially bacon and cheese. Choose fresh, high-quality items for the best taste.
• Neglecting seasoning: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland salad. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not chilling before serving: Chilling allows the flavors to meld. Aim for at least three hours in the refrigerator before serving.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Loaded Baked Potato Salad

• This salad does not freeze well due to its creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Loaded Baked Potato Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in a covered dish, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Loaded Baked Potato Salad that may help clarify any doubts.

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight, allowing flavors to blend beautifully.

What types of potatoes work best for this salad?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they become fluffy when baked. You can also use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture.

Can I customize my Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or different cheeses based on your taste.

How do I make a healthier version of Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Swap out sour cream and mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or use light versions of these ingredients while keeping your favorite add-ins.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a delightful twist on a classic steakhouse favorite that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s versatile enough to adapt with your preferred toppings and ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting dish!