If you’re looking for a dish that’s a crowd-pleaser, look no further than Loaded Baked Potato Salad! This delightful concoction brings together the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato—think crispy bacon, creamy sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese—into a salad that’s just too good to resist. I stumbled upon this recipe at a summer barbecue a few years back, and I’ve been hooked ever since! The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to potato heaven.
What I love most about this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is how versatile it is. It can easily stand alone as a hearty side dish or serve as a delicious complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even just a simple green salad. Plus, it’s easy to whip up for potlucks or family gatherings. Trust me, once you make this, your friends will be asking you to bring it to every event!
What’s in Loaded Baked Potato Salad?
Potatoes: The star of the show! I prefer using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor and creamy texture. They hold up beautifully when boiled and diced.
Bacon: For that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor! I always use thick-cut bacon—because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t want more bacon?
Sour Cream: This is what makes the salad creamy and tangy. Full-fat sour cream gives the best flavor, but feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a delicious cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Use freshly shredded cheese if you can—it melts into the salad better.
Green Onions: These not only add a pop of color but also a fresh, zesty kick. I like to use both green and white parts for added flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the wonderful flavors in this dish.
Is Loaded Baked Potato Salad Good for You?
Loaded Baked Potato Salad can be a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a little breakdown of what you get with this dish:
Potatoes: Full of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium, potatoes can be a healthy carb choice. Just keep the skin on for added fiber!
Bacon: While bacon is delicious, it’s high in saturated fat and sodium, so use it sparingly. A little bit goes a long way when it comes to flavor.
Sour Cream: Offers a dose of calcium and protein, but can be rich, so again, moderation is key. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative!
All in all, this salad is best enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Just don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular feature on your dining table!
Ingredients
– 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (serves about 8)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 4 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Salad?
1. Start by washing your Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and allow to cool before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel to drain, then chop into bits.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, chopped bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Mix everything together gently to avoid breaking up the potatoes too much.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to take it to the next level, feel free to sprinkle in some garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Let’s Elevate This Dish!
– Feel free to switch up the cheese! Substitute blue cheese or gouda for a different flavor profile.
– If you like a little heat, dice up a jalapeño or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the mix.
– Make it vegetarian by leaving out the bacon, or try substituting it with crispy chickpeas for that crunch.
I hope you’re as excited to make this Loaded Baked Potato Salad as I am! There’s just something so comforting about combining all these incredible flavors into one dish. I can’t wait for you to share your experience after trying this at your next gathering. So go ahead, roll up those sleeves, and let’s create something delicious together!
