Loaded Potato Salad
Creamy, tangy, and packed with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Servings 8
Calories 350 kcal
For the Potato Base:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt for boiling water
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Loaded Mix-ins:
- 8 slices bacon cooked crisp and chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 4 green onions thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra bacon bits
- Additional sliced green onions
- Extra shredded cheese
- Crispy fried onions
- Chopped fresh herbs
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash potatoes and cut into 1-inch cubes (leave skin on or peel if preferred).
Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add kosher salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle boil and cook for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl with vinegar and olive oil. Toss gently and cool for 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustards, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice until smooth.
Cook the Bacon (if not pre-cooked)
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (3-4 minutes per side).
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then chop into small pieces.
Assemble the Salad
To the cooled potatoes, add most of the bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions (reserve some for topping).
Add chopped fresh dill and sour cream.
Pour dressing over everything and gently fold until well combined.
Final Touches & Serving
Transfer to a serving bowl and top with reserved bacon, cheese, and green onions.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for best flavor or serve immediately at room temperature.
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For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika and roasted mushrooms.
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Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
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Make ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day!
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 24g
Keyword BBQ Side Dish, Easy Potato Recipe, Loaded Potato Salad