Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe

Category:Salads & Sides Dishes

This Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a creamy and delicious side dish that everyone will love. It’s packed with fluffy potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness!

I love how it combines the classic flavors of a baked potato into a fun salad. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or just trying to jazz up dinner! You’ll find yourself going back for seconds, trust me!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Potatoes: Use large baking potatoes, like Russets, for the best texture. They become fluffy when cooked. If you prefer, you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier texture, or even sweet potatoes for a twist!

Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combination makes the dressing ultra creamy. If you’re looking for lighter options, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or use a low-fat sour cream. Either will work well!

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor, but you can also use mild cheddar, pepper jack for a kick, or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.

Bacon: I love crispy bacon in this salad! If you want a vegetarian version, baked chickpeas or crispy tofu are great alternatives to add some crunch.

Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch. You can substitute with chives or shallots for a milder flavor.

How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking the potatoes to the right tenderness is key for this salad. You want them soft enough to blend with the dressing but firm enough to hold their shape. Follow these steps:

  • Start with cold water to ensure even cooking.
  • Once boiling, simmer for 10-15 minutes. Check with a fork; it should slide in easily without falling apart.
  • Drain the potatoes well and let them cool slightly before mixing to prevent excess moisture in the salad.

Enjoy creating this loaded baked potato salad as a delicious side that everyone will be reaching for at the table!

Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe

Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

  • 4 large baking potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced (separate white and green parts)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad takes about 25 minutes to prepare, plus at least an hour in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for make-ahead meals or gatherings!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cooking the Potatoes:

Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cooking until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork (about 10-15 minutes). Once they’re done, drain well and let cool slightly.

2. Preparing the Dressing:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your salad dressing!

3. Mixing the Ingredients:

Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the potatoes into the mixture with a spatula, being careful not to mash them. You want to coat them well, but keep them chunky!

4. Adding the Good Stuff:

Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Mix well to combine everything together. Then season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Final Touches:

Transfer the salad to a serving dish or bowl. Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.

6. Chill and Serve:

For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows all the delicious flavors to meld together. You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!

This recipe truly captures the spirit of a loaded baked potato in a salad form. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe

FAQ for Easy Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?

Absolutely! While baking potatoes like Russets work best for a fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Golds for a creamier salad. Just make sure to cut them into uniform chunks for even cooking.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! This potato salad is great for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!

What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?

If you prefer a lighter option or need a dairy-free version, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. This will give you the creaminess you want without sacrificing flavor!

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