Loaded baked potato salad is a delicious twist on the classic potato salad, bringing all the flavors of a loaded baked potato into a creamy and satisfying side dish. This recipe combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions for a flavorful and hearty salad that's perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a comforting side dish for dinner, this loaded baked potato salad is sure to be a hit.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is fantastic because it takes the beloved flavors of a loaded baked potato and transforms them into a cold salad that's easy to make and enjoy. The combination of creamy sour cream and sharp cheddar cheese provides a rich and tangy base, while the crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch. The fresh green onions give a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that balances out the richness of the other ingredients. This salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Moreover, this loaded baked potato salad is versatile and easy to customize. You can add additional toppings like chopped chives, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. It's also a great make-ahead dish, as it tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Whether you're serving it at a summer cookout or as a side for a cozy family dinner, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table with its comforting and familiar taste.
Ingredients
Potatoes: The base of the salad, providing a hearty texture. Russet or Yukon Gold work best. Substitute with sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory crunch. Use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Gives a rich, cheesy flavor. Sharp cheddar is recommended, but any type of cheddar works.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative.
Green Onions: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor. Chives can be used as a substitute.
Tips
- Boil the potatoes with the skin on to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Let the potatoes cool completely before mixing to avoid a runny salad.
- Crisp the bacon well for an added crunchy texture.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
How to Serve
Loaded baked potato salad is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a side dish for family dinners. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of bacon and cheese, makes it a hearty addition to any meal.
- Serve this salad chilled, garnished with extra green onions and bacon bits for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like burgers, steaks, or chicken. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad.
- You can also enjoy it as a main dish, topped with extra veggies like cherry tomatoes and avocado for a complete meal.
Similar Recipes
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes cubed
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Add the sour cream and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- Garnish with additional green onions and bacon bits if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Let the potatoes cool completely before mixing to avoid a runny salad.
• Crisp the bacon well for an added crunchy texture.
• Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.