Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my loaded potato salad! It’s one of those dishes that just screams comfort food, with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Imagine tender potatoes mingling with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions—yum! This recipe is special to me because it always brings back memories of summer barbecues with family and friends. I love serving it at gatherings, and it never fails to impress! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it my go-to side dish for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 cup of cooked bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare Loaded Potato Salad
Getting this loaded potato salad ready is a breeze, and I promise it’s totally worth the effort! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious salad that everyone will love!
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
First things first, let’s get those potatoes boiling! Place your chopped Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot, and cover them with cold water—about an inch above the potatoes should do it. Add a pinch of salt to the water to help flavor them as they cook. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. You’ll want to cook them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender but not mushy. Trust me, you want them to hold their shape for that perfect salad texture!
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes are cooling, let’s whip up that creamy dressing! In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream with 1/2 cup of mayonnaise. I love using a whisk for this—it helps get everything nice and smooth. If you want an extra creamy texture, you can even mix in a splash of milk to loosen it up a bit. Just keep whisking until it’s perfectly blended!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time for the fun part! Once your boiled potatoes have cooled, gently fold them into the bowl with your dressing. Add in that crispy, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. Be careful here—gently mix everything together to avoid breaking the potatoes. You want those delicious chunks to shine through in every bite!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
After everything is nicely combined, it’s crucial to let the flavors meld together. Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This chilling time not only enhances the flavors but also gives the salad a nice, refreshing chill. Trust me, you’ll want to dig in right away, but it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings!
- A creamy, dreamy texture that’s oh-so-satisfying with every bite.
- Loaded with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese for that irresistible flavor combo.
- Fresh green onions add a delightful crunch and a pop of color.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
- Great for meal prep—enjoy it as a side dish or a light lunch throughout the week.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings, like olives or jalapeños!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s get you set up for potato salad success! Here are my top tips to ensure your loaded potato salad turns out absolutely perfect every single time.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: I swear by Yukon Gold potatoes for this recipe! They have a creamy texture and hold their shape beautifully. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they can get mushy.
- Season Your Water: Don’t skip adding salt to the boiling water! It’s the first chance to flavor the potatoes. A little goes a long way, and it makes a noticeable difference!
- Chill for Flavor: Remember, the chilling time isn’t just for serving temperature—it’s when the flavors truly meld together. If you can, let it chill longer than an hour; overnight is even better!
- Mix Gently: When combining everything, be gentle! You want those potato chunks intact for texture, so fold rather than stir.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add some diced pickles, olives, or even a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick. You can even swap in different cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter salad, reduce the mayo and add a bit more sour cream, or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It’s all about what you love!
- Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust the seasoning! If it needs a little more zing, a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten it up beautifully.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to making the most delicious loaded potato salad that everyone will rave about! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Hey there! Before you dive into this delicious loaded potato salad, I want to give you a little heads-up about the nutritional information. Keep in mind that the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates for one serving (about 1 cup).
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g
So, as you can see, it’s a hearty dish packed with flavor! Just remember to adjust any ingredients according to your dietary preferences or needs. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite, and happy eating!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this loaded potato salad? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I’ve come across, along with my answers to help you out.
How can I make it healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. It’ll add creaminess without all the calories. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon for a leaner option. Adding extra veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers can also boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
Can I prepare it the day before?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend it! Making the potato salad a day ahead allows the flavors to really meld together, making it even tastier. Just remember to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. It’ll be a hit at your gathering!
What other toppings can I add?
Oh man, the possibilities are endless! You can add diced pickles for a tangy crunch, or sprinkle some jalapeños for a little heat. Chopped hard-boiled eggs can also be a delicious addition. If you’re a fan of herbs, fresh dill or parsley can brighten up the flavors beautifully. Just have fun with it!
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While I love Yukon Gold for their creamy texture, you can definitely use red potatoes or even russets. Just keep in mind that different potatoes might change the texture a bit, so choose what you enjoy the most!
How long will leftovers last?
Leftover loaded potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken a little after chilling.
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you create the best loaded potato salad ever!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your delicious loaded potato salad fresh and tasty! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps lock in all that creamy goodness and keep it from absorbing any unwanted odors from your fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—trust me, it’ll still be just as scrumptious!
If you find yourself needing to reheat it (though I must say, it’s just as delightful cold!), here’s a little trick: I recommend warming it gently in the microwave. Just scoop out the portion you want and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely to prevent splatters and heat it in short bursts—about 30 seconds at a time—stirring in between until it’s warmed through. Be careful not to overheat it, as that can make the potatoes a bit mushy!
And remember, if you’re ever in doubt, loaded potato salad is a fantastic cold dish, so feel free to enjoy it straight from the fridge! It’s perfect for a quick, tasty snack or side dish anytime. Happy storing and reheating!
For more information on the health benefits of potatoes, check out this Healthline article.
If you’re interested in other delicious potato recipes, you might enjoy this Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole.
Print
Loaded Potato Salad: 7 Ways to Indulge in Comfort
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful loaded potato salad with bacon, cheese, and green onions.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of potatoes
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 cup of cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes until tender, then let them cool.
- Peel and chop the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Add chopped potatoes, bacon, cheese, and green onions to the bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir gently to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Feel free to add other toppings like olives or jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: loaded potato salad, creamy potato salad, bacon potato salad
