Loaded Potato Salad

If you love all the flavors of a loaded baked potato—cheddar cheese, crispy beef, green onions, and creamy dressing—you’re going to fall hard for this Loaded Potato Salad. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or as a delicious side to just about any main dish. Whether served warm or chilled, every bite is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All the Toppings – Everything you love on a loaded baked potato is here.
Great for Gatherings – A guaranteed hit at cookouts, picnics, and parties.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared a day in advance and tastes even better chilled.
Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or swap the dressing for a twist.
Comfort Food Classic – Creamy, hearty, and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Potato Salad:

• 3 lbs baby red or Yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 cup cooked ground beef or beef bacon, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need
Large pot
Mixing bowls
Knife and cutting board
Colander
Wooden spoon or spatula
Serving bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
Add a generous pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 10–15 minutes or until fork-tender.
Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Beef or Beef Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or chopped beef bacon until browned and crispy.
Drain excess grease and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the warm (not hot) potatoes to the bowl with the dressing.
Gently fold to coat all the potatoes evenly.
Stir in the cooked beef or bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions.
Mix gently so the potatoes don’t break apart too much.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish
Transfer to a serving bowl.
Top with extra cheese, green onions, and parsley for color and flavor.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, or enjoy warm if preferred.

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Salad
Don’t Overcook Potatoes – You want them tender but still holding their shape.
Mix While Warm – Warm potatoes absorb more flavor from the dressing.
Use Good Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds the most punch.
Add Texture – Keep a few bacon bits or cheese shreds aside to sprinkle on top just before serving.
Customize It – Add jalapeños, diced pickles, or even hard-boiled eggs.

Serving Suggestions
Perfect BBQ Side – Serve with grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs.
Picnic Favorite – A cold, creamy classic on any summer spread.
Hearty Lunch – Serve alongside a green salad or sandwich.
Game Day Snack – Spoon into cups and top with extra bacon and cheese for party bites.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storing:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Stir before serving to re-distribute dressing and toppings.

Make Ahead:

• Prepare up to a day ahead for the best flavor.
• Add garnishes just before serving for a fresh look.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I serve this warm or cold?
Both! It’s delicious slightly warm, room temp, or fully chilled.

2. What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon golds or baby reds hold their shape and have a creamy texture when cooked.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Of course! Just skip the beef or use a plant-based alternative.

4. How do I make it lighter?
Swap full-fat mayo and sour cream with light versions or plain Greek yogurt.

5. Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely—try chopped boiled eggs, pickled jalapeños, or roasted garlic.

Final Thoughts
This Loaded Potato Salad is everything you love about a loaded baked potato, tossed together in one rich and creamy dish. Whether you’re making it for a backyard BBQ, meal prep for the week, or just craving something satisfying, it’s guaranteed to deliver. Each bite brings the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, smoky, and savory.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment, share your version online, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next gathering.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 480mg

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