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There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a bowl of creamy Loaded Potato Salad, especially when the sun is shining and the grill is fired up. The experience begins with the enticing aroma of smoky bacon mingling with fresh herbs, a tantalizing invitation to treat your taste buds. This dish, with its tender baby potatoes and vibrant ingredients, melds the comforting essence of a classic loaded baked potato with the refreshing qualities of a crisp salad.

Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or simply as a side to your favorite grilled meats, this Loaded Potato Salad will not only satisfy your cravings but also impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a hearty addition to your meal or a lighter option with ingredient substitutions, this recipe adapts effortlessly while retaining its signature flavor. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into a dish that promises to elevate any gathering with a comforting, creamy touch!

Why is this Loaded Potato Salad a Must-Try?

Creamy goodness: This Loaded Potato Salad embodies a rich, creamy texture that provides comfort in every bite.
Savory combinations: The marriage of crispy bacon and fresh herbs introduces an explosion of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Easy adaptability: With simple ingredient swaps, you can personalize this dish to fit your dietary needs, making it gluten-free and lighter with Greek yogurt alternatives.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for any occasion—summer BBQs, potlucks, or backyard gatherings—this salad is bound to bring smiles to the table.
Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy its delightful flavors after letting it chill, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Loaded Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Baby Red Potatoes – Provide a tender base; Yukon Gold potatoes can be an excellent substitute.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Add protein and creaminess; you can omit them for a lighter salad.
• Crispy Bacon – Brings a savory crunch; for a vegetarian twist, smoked tempeh or coconut bacon works well.
• Red Onion – Offers a sharp crunch; sweet onions can give a milder flavor instead.
• Chives – Fresh herbiness enhances taste; feel free to swap with green onions if needed.
• Dill – Adds a distinct herbal aroma; omit or replace with parsley if you prefer.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base; consider replacing half with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
• Sour Cream – Provides tanginess and richness; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option.
• Yellow Mustard – Adds a nice zing; Dijon or whole-grain mustard can bring different flavors.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste preference.

Embrace the creamy, savory allure of this Loaded Potato Salad, perfect for any gathering!

How to Make Loaded Potato Salad

Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and halve the baby red potatoes. Boil them in salted water for 12–15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool completely to maintain their texture.
Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. After boiling for 9–10 minutes, remove them from heat, cool in cold water, peel, and quarter.
Cook the Bacon: Fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces for easy mixing.
Chop the Vegetables: Finely dice the red onion and chop the chives and dill. These fresh ingredients will brighten up your salad!
Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth, creamy dressing.
Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the cooled potatoes, chopped eggs, bacon, red onion, dill, and chives into the dressing using a spatula. Be careful not to mash the potatoes!
Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with additional bacon and chives just before serving.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra dill on top for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Loaded Potato Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it well-sealed helps to maintain its creamy texture and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate upon thawing, resulting in an unappealing texture.
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally. However, it’s best enjoyed cold.
Serving Reminder: For optimal flavor, serve it chilled right from the fridge, allowing the flavors to shine in this comforting Loaded Potato Salad.

What to Serve with Loaded Potato Salad?

Pair your creamy, flavorful dish with delightful sides that make every bite memorable!

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, smoky skewers add a savory element that perfectly complements the rich salad, creating a well-rounded meal.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and crunchy, corn on the cob brings a fresh, summery vibe that balances the creaminess of the potato salad beautifully.
BBQ Ribs: Succulent ribs with a tangy glaze offer a hearty contrast to the light, comforting flavors of your Loaded Potato Salad, making it a finger-licking feast.
Caprese Salad: This fresh and vibrant salad, featuring mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, brings a burst of flavor that harmonizes with the creamy richness of the potatoes.
Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread introduces a satisfying crunch and flavor that’s sure to elevate your dining experience alongside the potato salad.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley adds a sweet touch that cleanses the palate, balancing the richness of the Loaded Potato Salad seamlessly.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the overall meal experience, providing a bright and crisp pairing.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these classic cookies deliver a sweet finish to your meal, and their softness contrasts nicely with the creamy salad.

Expert Tips for Loaded Potato Salad

Chill Time: Allow the salad to chill for at least an hour, or even overnight, to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Crispy Bacon: Always add bacon just before serving to maintain its delightful crunch; this keeps the texture balanced in your loaded potato salad.
** Potato Choice:** Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can become mushy; opt for waxy varieties like baby reds or Yukon Golds for the perfect bite.
Ingredient Mixing: If prepping ahead, consider mixing in more delicate ingredients like chives and dill closer to serving time to preserve their freshness.
Seasoning Check: Always taste before serving; the right amount of salt and pepper can elevate your loaded potato salad from good to great!

Loaded Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish, elevating it to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives like cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt for a creamy, plant-based option.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and richness. This twist brings a delightful creaminess to each bite!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or tarragon alongside chives for a fragrant herbal touch that brightens the dish. You’ll love the aromatic lift it gives!
Zesty Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the dressing for a fiery finish. This adds a delightful layer of heat, making your guests come back for more.
Pickle-Packed: Incorporate diced dill pickles or relish for a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the salad. This adds a surprising burst of flavor!
Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers or zucchini for added depth and a hint of sweetness. The onions and potatoes will interact wonderfully with the roasted flavors in every bite.
Italian Style: Swap the mayo for pesto to give the salad a vibrant, herby flavor that transforms it into a fresh Italian-inspired dish. It’s a delightful twist!
Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness and extra crunch. This subtly sweet addition will surprise your taste buds!

Make Ahead Options

This Loaded Potato Salad is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts, saving time on busy weeknights! You can boil the baby red potatoes and prepare the hard-boiled eggs up to 24 hours in advance, letting them cool and refrigerate separately to maintain texture. Additionally, the creamy dressing can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply combine everything, adding the crispy bacon just before serving to keep it crunchy. Not only will you enjoy a delicious Loaded Potato Salad, but the flavors will meld beautifully over time, making it just as delightful as when freshly made!

Loaded Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my baby red potatoes are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for firm, smooth-skinned baby red potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size and have a bright color. If they start sprouting or have wrinkles, it’s time to let them go.

How should I store leftovers of my Loaded Potato Salad?
Very good question! Store your Loaded Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well-sealed to maintain that creamy texture and prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge.

Can I freeze my Loaded Potato Salad?
I don’t recommend freezing this dish. The creamy dressing may separate when thawed, resulting in an unappetizing texture. If you’re planning to make it ahead, it’s best to prepare it fresh and store it in the fridge for short-term enjoyment!

What should I do if my potato salad seems too runny?
No worries! If your Loaded Potato Salad turns out too runny, you can thicken it by adding a small amount of additional mayonnaise or sour cream. Alternatively, mix in some crushed crackers or finely diced potatoes to absorb excess moisture. Just fold in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Is this potato salad safe for people with gluten allergies?
Yes, you can enjoy this Loaded Potato Salad gluten-free! Just make sure to use gluten-free bacon and mustard. Always double-check labels to avoid any hidden gluten ingredients, especially in condiments.

How long should I chill the Loaded Potato Salad before serving?
Great question! Ideally, it’s best to chill the salad for at least 1 hour, but if you can let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, the flavors will meld beautifully. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute all those delightful ingredients!