Loaded potato salad recipes, creamy, cheesy delight with 3 boiled potatoes, 1/2 cup mayo, 1/4 cup bacon, 1/4 cup cheese & fresh onions. Easy & tasty.
What Is Loaded Potato Salad?
Loaded potato salad recipes take the classic potato salad to a new level by adding bold flavors and hearty toppings. While traditional versions rely mostly on potatoes, mayo, and a few seasonings, loaded salads bring in ingredients like crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, green onions, pickles, and a creamy dressing that combines mayo and sour cream.
The result is a side dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. These salads can be served chilled or at room temperature, making them ideal for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings. Each variation can be customized with spices, herbs, or extra toppings.
Recipe 1: Classic Loaded Potato Salad
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes, diced | 4 cups |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 6 slices |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Green onions, chopped | ½ cup |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sour cream | ¼ cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | to taste |
Instructions
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10–12 minutes; drain and cool slightly.
- Cook bacon until crispy, crumble, and set aside.
- Mix dressing: combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Combine ingredients: in a large bowl, gently fold potatoes, bacon, cheddar, and green onions with the dressing.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for flavors to meld
Recipe 2: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Loaded Potato Salad
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Red potatoes, diced | 4 cups |
| Jalapeños, seeded and chopped | 2 |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 5 slices |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | ¾ cup |
| Cream cheese, softened | ¼ cup |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sour cream | ¼ cup |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | to taste |
Instructions
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, 10–12 minutes; drain and let cool slightly.
- Cook bacon until crispy; crumble and set aside.
- Prepare dressing: mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: gently fold potatoes, jalapeños, bacon, and cheddar into the dressing.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust jalapeño quantity for desired heat.
- Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add green onions or chives for extra freshness.
Recipe 3: Southwest Twist Loaded Potato Salad
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes, diced | 4 cups |
| Black beans, drained & rinsed | 1 cup |
| Corn kernels (fresh or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | ¾ cup |
| Cilantro, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sour cream | ¼ cup |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp |
| Chipotle powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | to taste |
Instructions
- Cook potatoes in salted water until tender, 10–12 minutes; drain and cool slightly.
- Mix dressing: combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine salad ingredients: fold potatoes, black beans, corn, cheddar, and cilantro into the dressing gently.
- Chill for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Swap corn for roasted bell peppers for a colorful twist.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
Storage Method
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Stir gently before serving; best served chilled
FAQs of loaded potato salad recipes
Q1: Can I make loaded potato salad recipes ahead of time?
Yes. Preparing the salad a few hours or even a day in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container.
Q2: How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored properly, loaded potato salad recipes stay fresh for 3–5 days. Stir gently before serving.
Q3: Can I swap ingredients for dietary preferences?
Absolutely. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version or omit bacon for a vegetarian option.
Q4: What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape while giving a creamy texture.
Q5: How do I make it extra flavorful?
Add fresh herbs, pickles, cheese, or spices like paprika or chipotle for a bold taste
