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Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Salad with Bacon

creamy loaded baked potato salad with bacon - featured image

A creamy, smoky, and comforting baked potato salad with crispy bacon, perfect for summer parties and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium baking potatoes (about 2 pounds or 900g) – Yukon Gold or Russet
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon – Applewood smoked preferred
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (60 g)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes clean, pat dry, prick several times with a fork, and bake directly on oven rack for 45-50 minutes until tender. Alternatively, microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
  2. Cut bacon into small pieces. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat if desired.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and thick.
  4. When potatoes are cool enough to handle but still warm, peel skins off and chop into roughly 1-inch cubes. Add warm potatoes to the dressing.
  5. Gently fold potatoes into dressing without mashing. Add bacon pieces and sliced green onions. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese if using. Mix until well coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Use baked or microwaved potatoes instead of boiled for better texture. Mix dressing with warm potatoes to absorb flavors. Crisp bacon is essential for smoky crunch. Adjust salt gradually and fold gently to keep potato shape. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Can be made ahead and tastes better after chilling overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, baked potato salad, bacon, creamy potato salad, summer party recipe, easy potato salad