Description
A hearty and flavorful Loaded Potato Salad made with baked potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing. This easy summer salad recipe is perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4–5 medium potatoes)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a tangier dressing
- Optional: A pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor
- Optional: A few dashes of hot sauce for a little kick
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and prick potatoes with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes until fork-tender.
- 2. While potatoes bake, cook bacon until crisp. Drain and crumble.
- 3. Cut baked potatoes in half, scoop out flesh into a large bowl, leaving about 1/4-inch shell. Mash potato flesh coarsely.
- 4. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in half the bacon and half the cheese.
- 5. Add dressing to mashed potatoes and gently fold to coat.
- 6. Fold in remaining bacon and cheese, and most of the chives.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
- 9. Garnish with reserved chives and extra cheese/bacon before serving.
Notes
Store leftover loaded potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop if desired, adding a splash more of sour cream or mayonnaise if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g