Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a hearty, flavorful twist on classic potato salad, packed with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, green onions, and a creamy sour cream dressing. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish any time of year.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
russet potatoes (baked and diced)bacon (cooked and crumbled)sour creammayonnaisecheddar cheese (shredded)green onions (chopped)saltblack pepperoptional toppings: extra bacon, cheese, chives

directions

Bake russet potatoes until tender, then cool completely.

Dice the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the potatoes and gently toss to coat.

Fold in crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.

Top with extra bacon, cheese, and chives if desired before serving.

Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking and cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a little kick.
Add diced pickles or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Use red potatoes for a slightly different texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serve cold; no reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I use boiled potatoes instead of baked?
Yes, but baking gives a richer flavor closer to a loaded baked potato.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure all your ingredients, especially bacon, are gluten-free.

Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works as a lighter option.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but any favorite cheese will work.

Can I add hard-boiled eggs?
Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs make a great addition.

Does it need to be served cold?
Yes, it’s best served chilled.

Can I make it spicy?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.

How do I keep the potatoes from falling apart?
Cool them completely before dicing to help them hold their shape.

Can I skip the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use all sour cream or substitute with Greek yogurt.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a creamy, cheesy, and bacon-packed side that transforms a classic favorite into a hearty, irresistible dish. Perfect for any gathering or simple family dinner, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table!