Loaded Baked Potato Salad

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad has all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions—all tossed together in a creamy, delicious salad. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks!


🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ⅓ cup chopped green onions
  • 1½ cups sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 pieces cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • Chopped chives, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Roast the Potatoes

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
  2. Place the potato chunks on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Roast for 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden.
  5. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

2️⃣ Prepare the Salad Base

  1. Once cooled, transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add 1½ cups sour cream and gently stir until the potatoes are evenly coated.

3️⃣ Add the Toppings

  1. Fold in the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
  2. Mix in ⅓ cup chopped green onions.

4️⃣ Garnish & Serve

🔟 Garnish with extra green onions, minced garlic, and fresh chives for added flavor.
1️⃣1️⃣ Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and smoky delight!


⏳ Cooking Time & Servings

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8

🔥 Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and delicious Loaded Baked Potato Salad! 🥔🧀🥓


30 Popular Questions & Answers ❓🥔

1️⃣ Can I use red potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?

Yes! Red potatoes hold their shape well and add a great texture.

2️⃣ Can I use mayo instead of sour cream?

Yes, or try a 50/50 mix of mayo and sour cream for extra creaminess.

3️⃣ Should I peel the potatoes?

No, but you can if you prefer a smoother texture.

4️⃣ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate.

5️⃣ Can I serve this warm?

Yes! This salad is great warm or cold.

6️⃣ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

7️⃣ Can I freeze it?

No, dairy-based potato salads don’t freeze well.

8️⃣ What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.

9️⃣ Can I add ranch seasoning?

Yes! Add 1 tablespoon ranch mix for extra flavor.

🔟 Can I add more mix-ins?

Yes! Try chopped jalapeños, crispy fried onions, or diced bell peppers.

1️⃣1️⃣ How do I make it less heavy?

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

1️⃣2️⃣ What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar melts well and adds great flavor.

1️⃣3️⃣ Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, but fresh bacon has a better crunch.

1️⃣4️⃣ Can I use boiled potatoes instead of roasted?

Yes, but roasting gives better texture and flavor.

1️⃣5️⃣ Can I add hard-boiled eggs?

Absolutely! Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.

1️⃣6️⃣ Can I add a spicy kick?

Yes! Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

1️⃣7️⃣ How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?

Let them cool completely before mixing.

1️⃣8️⃣ Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Yes! Use vegan sour cream and dairy-free cheese.

1️⃣9️⃣ Can I add cooked chicken?

Yes! Shredded or grilled chicken makes this a full meal.

2️⃣0️⃣ Can I mix different cheeses?

Yes! Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for variety.

2️⃣1️⃣ How do I make it tangier?

Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.

2️⃣2️⃣ Can I make this keto-friendly?

Yes! Use cauliflower instead of potatoes.

2️⃣3️⃣ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook potatoes on low for 4 hours, then mix in toppings.

2️⃣4️⃣ Can I add smoked paprika?

Yes! It enhances the bacon’s smoky flavor.

2️⃣5️⃣ What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley, thyme, or rosemary all work well.

2️⃣6️⃣ Can I add crispy fried onions?

Yes! It adds a nice crunch.

2️⃣7️⃣ What drinks pair well with this dish?

Lemonade, beer, or iced tea pair perfectly.

2️⃣8️⃣ Can I serve this with burgers?

Yes! It’s a perfect BBQ side.

2️⃣9️⃣ How do I keep it from drying out?

Add a little extra sour cream before serving.

3️⃣0️⃣ Can I make it more filling?

Yes! Add diced ham or ground sausage.


30 Tips to Make This Potato Salad Even More Delightful 🥔✨

🥔 Potato Tips

  1. Roast the potatoes for extra flavor.
  2. Let potatoes cool completely before mixing.
  3. Use baby potatoes for a buttery texture.
  4. Avoid overcooking; you want tender, not mushy potatoes.
  5. Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.

🧀 Cheese Tips

  1. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
  2. Mix in Parmesan for extra depth.
  3. Try smoked gouda for a unique twist.
  4. Sprinkle cheese on top before serving.
  5. Use a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.

🥓 Bacon Tips

  1. Cook bacon extra crispy for better texture.
  2. Use peppered bacon for more spice.
  3. Add candied bacon for a sweet twist.
  4. Sprinkle bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.
  5. Try turkey bacon for a lighter option.

🌿 Flavor Tips

  1. Use chives or green onions for freshness.
  2. Add a splash of vinegar for tang.
  3. Mix in Dijon mustard for depth.
  4. Stir in garlic powder or onion powder.
  5. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.

🍽️ Serving Tips

  1. Serve chilled for best texture.
  2. Make it a meal by adding grilled chicken.
  3. Garnish with extra green onions and bacon.
  4. Serve in a hollowed-out bread bowl.
  5. Pair with grilled steak or burgers.

🔄 Storage Tips

  1. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  2. Stir before serving to redistribute flavors.
  3. Add more sour cream if it looks dry.
  4. Keep in a sealed container to stay fresh.
  5. Don’t freeze—it changes the texture!

🔥 Now go enjoy the best Loaded Baked Potato Salad! 🥔🥓🧀

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