Description
A flavorful baked potato salad featuring crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy tangy dressing, perfect for BBQs and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium-large baking potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold, about 2 pounds / 900 g)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 ounces / 115 g)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry. Prick each potato several times with a fork.
- Bake potatoes directly on oven rack or baking sheet for 45-50 minutes until a skewer slides in easily.
- While potatoes bake, cook bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until crispy (8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Let potatoes cool completely. Peel if desired, then chop into bite-sized cubes.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Chop cooled bacon into small pieces and slice green onions thinly.
- In a large bowl, gently toss potatoes, bacon, green onions, shredded cheddar, and dressing until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Notes
Bake potatoes instead of boiling for firmer texture. Start bacon in a cold pan to render fat slowly and achieve crispiness. Chill salad at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor. Can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use turkey bacon for leaner version. Optional smoked paprika adds warmth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (200 g)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Protein: 10
Keywords: baked potato salad, bacon potato salad, cheddar potato salad, BBQ side dish, creamy potato salad, loaded potato salad