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Loaded Potato Salad Recipe Easy 5-Step Comforting Potluck Favorite

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A quick and easy loaded potato salad featuring Yukon Gold potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for potlucks and casual dinners, this comforting dish balances flavors and textures beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender but not mushy. Drain potatoes in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While potatoes are cooking, fry 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the warm potatoes with the dressing until evenly coated. Add crumbled bacon, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Mix carefully so the potatoes don’t break apart.
  5. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if using, and give it one last gentle stir. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature about 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Do not overcook the potatoes to avoid mushiness; test early for fork-tender but firm texture. Mix salad while potatoes are warm for better flavor absorption. Crumble bacon by hand for best texture. Adjust seasoning after combining all ingredients. Refrigerate at least 1 hour for flavors to meld. Bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.

Nutrition

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