Flavorful Forkfuls of Joy (Loaded Baked Potato Salad)

If you thought potato salad couldn’t get any better, prepare yourself for a delightful twist that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance! This Loaded Baked Potato Salad takes the classic side dish we all know and love and jazzes it up with savory Turkey Bacon, creamy cheddar cheese, and the refreshing crunch of scallions, all enveloped in a luscious sour cream and mayo dressing. It’s like a picnic in a bowl, ready to steal the show at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready to fall head over heels for a side dish? Here’s why this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a must-make:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of smoky turkey bacon and zesty dressing creates a flavor explosion.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family dinners—everyone will be going back for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: Customize it to your liking and whip it up in no time.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors blend for even tastier results!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients that will bring your Loaded Baked Potato Salad to life! Each component plays a crucial role in creating that creamy, dreamy dish we all crave.

– 4 pounds russet potatoes
– 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 12 ounces Turkey Bacon (cooked, cooled, and chopped)
– 6 green onions (chopped)
– 1 1/2 cups medium cheddar cheese (shredded)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is its versatility! Here are a few fun twists you can try:

– Go Gluten-Free: Ensure your mayonnaise is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked beans for an extra protein punch!
– Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick that’ll make your taste buds tingle.
– Swap the Dressing: Try a ranch dressing for a creamy twist or a vinaigrette for a lighter option.
– Cheese it Up: Mix in some crumbled feta or blue cheese for a tangy flavor contrast that’s simply divine.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Let’s dive into the easy steps to create this crowd-pleasing Loaded Baked Potato Salad that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get your cleaned russet potatoes ready by pricking them 4-5 times with a fork, giving them a little olive oil massage, and sprinkling with kosher salt. Bake them on a baking sheet for about 50-60 minutes, or until they’re tender enough to pass the “cake tester” test.

Step 2: Chill and Cut

Once they’re out of the oven, let your potatoes cool for about 5 minutes. When they’re cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and chop the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Don’t worry if they crumble a bit—this adds to the rustic charm! Toss the warm potato pieces into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with apple cider vinegar. Let them rest for 15-30 minutes to cool down completely.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

While your potatoes are cooling, cook the turkey bacon in a large skillet or in the oven until crispy. Drain any excess fat, let it cool, and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with kosher salt and pepper. This creamy concoction is what dreams are made of!

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Once the potatoes are completely cool, pour the creamy dressing over the potatoes along with the chopped turkey bacon, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together, being careful not to mash the potatoes too much. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to let those flavors mingle beautifully!

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Salad

– Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for a fluffy texture, but feel free to experiment with Yukon Gold for a creamy bite!
– Cook Bacon to Perfection: Make sure your turkey bacon is crispy for that perfect crunch in every bite.
– Chill Out: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for optimal flavor development—this dish gets better with time!
– Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning throughout the process—everyone’s palate is different, so make it just right for you!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Garnishes

Elevate your dish with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or sprinkle with additional cheese for that extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair this Loaded Baked Potato Salad with grilled chicken, burgers, or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual cups for a fun, portable option, or display it on a large platter garnished with colorful veggies for a beautiful buffet centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Loaded Baked Potato Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving!

Freezing

We recommend against freezing this salad, as the creamy dressing may separate and the potatoes can become mushy after thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold, straight from the fridge! If you prefer warm potatoes, reheat in the oven at 350°F until just warmed through, then mix in the dressing.

FAQs

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite bacon for that classic flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! It’s mild and creamy, but you can easily add heat with jalapeños or hot sauce if desired.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Ensure your mayonnaise is gluten-free, and you’re good to go!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This Loaded Baked Potato Salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or parties.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—the ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Salad that’s bursting with flavor and smiles! Perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation. So grab those ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!