Loaded Baked Potato Salad

The Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a delightful twist on the classic steakhouse favorite. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any gathering, this salad combines tender potatoes with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty scallions, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a crowd-pleaser that stands out at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite delivers a combination of smoky bacon, creamy dressing, and fresh scallions that tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side for BBQs, picnics, or family dinners, it adapts well to various occasions.
• Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 12 servings per recipe, it’s perfect for gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure an easy and enjoyable experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or oven-safe dish
• Fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting potatoes, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine all ingredients without spills.
• Skillet or oven-safe dish: Essential for cooking bacon perfectly until crispy.

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

For the Dressing

• 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

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 your oven to 400° F.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

• Place cleaned potatoes on a baking sheet.
• Pierce each potato 4-5 times with a fork.
• Lightly coat them with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
• Roast for 50-60 minutes or 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 the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch chunks. Discard potato jackets.
• Transfer potato flesh to a large mixing bowl while still warm.
• Sprinkle with apple cider vinegar and let rest for 15-30 minutes until cooled.

Step 3: Prepare the Bacon

While potatoes cool:
Cook bacon in a skillet or oven until crispy.
Drain excess fat and let cool before crumbling into bite-size pieces.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
Mix together mayonnaise and sour cream.
Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your Loaded Baked Potato Salad for at least 3 hours or up to overnight before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Enjoy this flavorful dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to make it shine at your next gathering.

With Grilled Meats

• Steak: The rich flavors of steak complement the creamy potato salad perfectly.
• Chicken: Grilled chicken adds a lighter option that pairs well with the heaviness of the salad.
• Pork Chops: Juicy pork chops bring a savory balance to the loaded baked potato salad.

At Potlucks

• Buffet Style: Serve in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Individual Cups: For easier serving, use small cups for single servings to reduce mess and enhance presentation.

As a Picnic Dish

• Chilled Basket: Pack in a cooler with ice packs to keep it fresh during outdoor events.
• Wraps: Use lettuce wraps to provide a low-carb option alongside the salad.

On Special Occasions

• Barbecue Parties: This dish is perfect for summer cookouts and backyard barbecues.
• Holiday Gatherings: It adds comfort and festivity to holiday spreads, making it a crowd favorite.

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How to Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Salad

To achieve the best Loaded Baked Potato Salad, consider these simple tips. They help elevate flavors and ensure a delightful experience.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh potatoes, crisp bacon, and quality cheese enhances taste significantly.
• Let Potatoes Cool Properly: Allowing potatoes to cool before mixing prevents the dressing from becoming too runny.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for perfect flavor balance.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating for several hours allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.

Best Side Dishes for Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Pairing side dishes with Loaded Baked Potato Salad can create a memorable meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky and sweet, this classic summer side is perfect for outdoor gatherings.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing balances the richness of the potato salad nicely.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw brings freshness and texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy dishes.
4. Baked Beans: Their sweetness provides a delightful contrast to savory flavors found in potato salad.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition to your meal.
6. Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery treat offers an irresistible addition that everyone will love.
7. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit medley can cleanse the palate between bites of rich potato salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Loaded Baked Potato Salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Potatoes – If you cook the potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Check them with a fork and remove them once they’re tender but still hold their shape.
• Not Letting Potatoes Cool – It’s essential to let the potatoes cool before mixing. Hot potatoes can cause the dressing to separate and make the salad too heavy.
• Skipping Seasoning – A bland salad is a missed opportunity. Always season your potato salad with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste as you mix in other ingredients.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients – The flavors of this dish depend on good ingredients. Use fresh green onions, high-quality bacon, and your favorite cheese for the best taste.
• Not Allowing Time to Chill – Rushing straight to serving without chilling can lead to a less flavorful dish. Allow at least 3 hours in the fridge for flavors to meld.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Loaded Baked Potato Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change texture and flavor.
• If necessary, freeze in a sturdy container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Loaded Baked Potato Salad

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Loaded Baked Potato Salad that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I customize my Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like diced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra flavor.

What type of potatoes should I use for Loaded Baked Potato Salad?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy texture when baked. They hold up well when mixed into a salad.

How long does Loaded Baked Potato Salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it can last up to 4 days.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for making ahead. Just let it chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Its creamy dressing combined with crispy bacon and fresh scallions provides comfort food satisfaction. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or serve it at gatherings; it’s sure to please any crowd!