Loaded Baked Potato Salad has become one of my favorite side dishes over the years. The combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables makes it a delightful addition to any meal. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a summer barbecue, and I was instantly hooked. It was a warm day, and the salad was the perfect complement to the grilled burgers and hot dogs. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Loaded Baked Potato Salad, along with tips and tricks to make it your own.
What is Loaded Baked Potato Salad?
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a twist on the classic potato salad. Instead of just boiled potatoes, this version incorporates all the delicious toppings you would find on a loaded baked potato. Think creamy dressing, cheese, bacon, chives, and sour cream. It’s a hearty salad that can stand alone as a meal or serve as a side dish.
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe
Creating the perfect Loaded Baked Potato Salad requires a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 lbs of baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold work best)
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 3 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh chives for garnish
How to Prepare Loaded Baked Potato Salad
The first step to making Loaded Baked Potato Salad is preparing the potatoes. I prefer using baby potatoes because they are tender and flavorful. Here’s how I do it:
- Wash the Potatoes: Rinse the baby potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Boil Until Tender: Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
- Cool and Cut: Drain the potatoes and let them cool. Cut them into quarters or halves, depending on your preference.
Making the Dressing
While the potatoes are cooling, I love to whip up the dressing. This is what brings all the flavors together. Here’s how I make it:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor if you like.
- Mix in Cheese and Bacon: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Bringing It All Together
Now that the potatoes are cooled and the dressing is ready, it’s time to combine everything. Here’s what I do:
- Add Potatoes to the Dressing: Gently fold the cooled potatoes into the dressing mixture. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want them to hold their shape.
- Add Green Onions: Sprinkle in the chopped green onions and mix until everything is well coated.
Chill Before Serving
One of the best tips I can offer is to let the Loaded Baked Potato Salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I usually prepare it a few hours ahead of time or even the night before.
Serving Ideas
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or ribs for a complete meal.
- Picnics and Potlucks: This salad is perfect for gatherings. It travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- As a Main Dish: If you want a lighter meal, enjoy it on its own with some crusty bread.
Variations on Loaded Baked Potato Salad
I love experimenting with different ingredients to give my Loaded Baked Potato Salad a twist. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even corn for added crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack or feta cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers, here’s how I store them:
- Refrigerate: Place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days.
- Avoid Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this salad, as the potatoes and dressing do not thaw well.
Nutritional Information
While Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a delicious treat, it’s good to be mindful of portion sizes. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 8g
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the dressing, the crispiness of the bacon, and the freshness of the green onions come together perfectly. It’s ideal for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, or any time you want to impress your family and friends.
In my experience, this salad has a way of bringing people together. Whether I’m serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a simple lunch, it always brings a smile to my face. I hope you give this Loaded Baked Potato Salad a try and enjoy it as much as I do.