If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful side dish that’s sure to please a crowd, this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is just what you need. Combining tender, buttery potatoes with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing made from sour cream and mayonnaise, this dish is a must for picnics, BBQs, and family gatherings. Each bite delivers all the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato in a chilled, easy-to-serve salad form.

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This salad takes the classic potato salad to the next level with the addition of all the ingredients you love on a loaded baked potato: crunchy bacon, rich cheese, fresh green onions, and a creamy dressing. It’s a deliciously indulgent dish that pairs well with anything from grilled meats to sandwiches. And with a handful of fresh parsley, this salad not only tastes great but also looks fresh and vibrant.

A Brief History of Potato Salad and Its Evolution into a Loaded Favorite

Potato salad has been a staple side dish for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early days of European cuisine. Originally, potato salads were made with a simple vinegar-based dressing, but over time, variations emerged. In the United States, mayonnaise-based potato salads became popular in the early 20th century, leading to the creamy versions we know today. Adding classic loaded baked potato toppings like bacon, cheese, and sour cream has turned this humble side dish into a flavorful and satisfying favorite that’s loved by many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Loaded Baked Potato Salad

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is packed with all the flavors you love in a baked potato, but in a creamy, cold salad form. The bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch, while the sharp cheddar cheese melts into the potatoes for added richness. The dressing, made with sour cream and mayonnaise, brings everything together with a creamy tang that’s perfectly balanced by the freshness of green onions and parsley. This salad is easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is perfect for serving at gatherings or as a weeknight side dish.

Nutritional Information for Loaded Baked Potato Salad (Per Serving, Serves 8-10)  

• Calories: 380 kcal  
• Protein: 10g  
• Fat: 24g  
• Carbohydrates: 28g  
• Fiber: 3g  
• Sugar: 2g  
• Sodium: 700mg

Serving Suggestions to Make Your Loaded Baked Potato Salad Even More Special

This potato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like burgers, steaks, or chicken, but it’s also fantastic alongside sandwiches or BBQ. For extra indulgence, top each serving with an additional sprinkle of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a few more green onions. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing on top for added flavor. This salad is best served chilled but can also be enjoyed at room temperature for picnics or outdoor gatherings.

Storage Information for Your Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Store your potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. If the salad thickens too much while sitting, you can stir in a little extra sour cream or mayonnaise before serving to refresh the texture.

Extra Fun Tip for Taking Your Potato Salad to the Next Level

To give your potato salad a smoky flavor, consider roasting the potatoes instead of boiling them. This will add an extra layer of flavor and enhance the overall richness of the dish. You can also experiment with adding different cheeses, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique twist. For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad for a spicy kick.

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Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs gold or red potatoes  
• 1 cup chopped cooked bacon (about 5-7 slices)  
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese  
• 1 cup sour cream  
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise  
• 3 green onions, sliced  
• Handful of fresh parsley, chopped  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Bacon: While the potatoes are cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces.

3. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, and parsley. Stir until smooth. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Salad: Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon, and fold them into the salad.

5. Chill and Serve: Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, garnish with extra cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions if desired.

Enjoy your Loaded Baked Potato Salad!

This rich, creamy salad is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor, bringing together all the best parts of a loaded baked potato. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, picnic, or as a side dish for dinner, this potato salad is sure to be a hit.