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Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Salad with Bacon and Cheddar

creamy loaded baked potato salad - featured image

A warm and comforting potato salad featuring baked potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect as a quick and easy side dish for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet baked potatoes, cooled and cubed
  • 68 bacon strips, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat preferred)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 34 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce 4 medium russet potatoes with a fork a few times and bake directly on the oven rack or baking sheet for 45-60 minutes until skin is crispy and insides are soft. Let cool completely before handling.
  2. Lay 6-8 bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  3. Peel the cooled baked potatoes if desired and cut into roughly 1-inch cubes. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cubed potatoes. Gently fold in crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar (reserve some for topping if desired), and chopped green onions. Add parsley if using and adjust seasoning.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra cheddar and green onions.

Notes

Use russet potatoes for fluffy texture. Baking potatoes instead of boiling gives a better texture and flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or more sour cream. Avoid overmixing to keep potato chunks intact. Bacon can be baked or pan-fried. May substitute mayo with Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives for lighter or dairy-free versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, baked potato salad, bacon, cheddar, creamy potato salad, side dish, BBQ side, easy potato salad