The warm sun beats down as you arrive at the picnic; the air is filled with laughter and the tempting aroma of grilled goodies. You can almost taste the excitement in the air as your family and friends gather around. Among the many delicious treats laid out before you, there’s one dish that steals the show every time—loaded potato salad. This creamy delight tantalizes taste buds with its rich flavors and delightful textures.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of potatoes are best for loaded potato salad?
- Can I make loaded potato salad ahead of time?
- What toppings can I add to enhance the flavor?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As you dig into a generous scoop of this heavenly concoction, memories flood back of summer nights spent laughing and sharing stories over bowls of this ultimate comfort food. Picture a backyard barbecue where everyone raves about your famous loaded potato salad. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together and creates lasting memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This loaded potato salad is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering.
- Its rich flavors combine perfectly for an unforgettable taste experience.
- The vibrant colors make it a visual feast on any table setting.
- Ideal for any occasion from picnics to potlucks; this dish is always a hit!
I remember the first time I made this loaded potato salad for my family reunion—everyone went back for seconds (and thirds) while I basked in the compliments!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture; they hold up well when boiled.
- Mayonnaise: Opt for full-fat mayo for a richer flavor; it adds creaminess to the dressing.
- Sour Cream: This adds a tangy note that balances the richness of mayonnaise; use full-fat for best results.
- Green Onions: Fresh chopped green onions provide a pop of color and mild onion flavor; don’t skip these!
- Bacon Bits (Optional): Crispy bacon bits add crunch and savory depth; feel free to use turkey bacon if preferred.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar enhances richness; choose good quality cheese for maximum flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: Chopped herbs add freshness and vibrant color; sprinkle on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Potatoes: Start by scrubbing about two pounds of potatoes under cold running water until clean. Cut them into bite-sized pieces while keeping their skins on for added texture.
Boil Those Spuds: Place the cut potatoes into a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender—about 10-15 minutes should do it!
Drain & Cool Down: After boiling, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool completely at room temperature to avoid wilting your dressing.
Create Your Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of mayonnaise with half a cup of sour cream. Whisk until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Flavor Galore!: Fold in diced green onions, crispy bacon bits (if using), shredded cheddar cheese, and any herbs like parsley or chives you fancy.
Combine Everything Together!: Gently mix your cooled potatoes with the dressing mixture until everything is well coated. Taste-test! Adjust seasoning if needed.
Now that you have crafted your creamy masterpiece, cover it with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving. This allows all those delightful flavors to meld together beautifully.
And there you have it! Your loaded potato salad is ready to impress friends and family alike at any gathering. Enjoy every bite as laughter fills the air once more!
You Must Know
- Loaded potato salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending creamy textures with crispy toppings.
- Perfect for summer picnics or potlucks, it’s easy to customize and always a hit.
- Just remember, the secret is in the balance of flavors and textures!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your potatoes until fork-tender while prepping the other ingredients. This ensures a smooth flow and avoids chaos in the kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or try different cheeses like feta. Each change adds a unique twist to your loaded potato salad.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover loaded potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed cold but can be slightly warmed if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use waxy potatoes for better texture; they hold their shape nicely.
- Don’t over-boil your potatoes; keep them firm for that perfect bite.
- Experiment with toppings like jalapeños or crispy onions for added flavor and crunch!
Sharing this recipe at a family gathering brought smiles all around, especially when my cousin asked for seconds—always a good sign of success!
FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for loaded potato salad?
Waxy potatoes like red or yellow are ideal due to their creamy texture.
Can I make loaded potato salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for better flavor melding.
What toppings can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding crumbled bacon alternatives, scallions, or even avocado for extra richness.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Loaded Potato Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
A creamy, flavor-packed dish that combines tender potatoes with rich dressing and fresh toppings, making it a must-have for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Scrub and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skins on.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in green onions, cheddar cheese, and herbs into the cooled potatoes.
- Mix until well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using turkey bacon bits or experimenting with different cheeses like feta.
- This salad is best served cold but can be warmed slightly if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg