Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Loaded Baked Potato Salad is a flavorful and hearty twist on the classic potato salad we all know and love. This indulgent dish takes inspiration from loaded baked potatoes, incorporating all the delicious toppings that make them so irresistible. Imagine creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, tangy cheddar cheese, and a medley of savory seasonings, all mixed together in one glorious salad. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a potluck party, or a simple family dinner, this salad is sure to steal the show!

Ingredients:

Preparing the Potatoes

To kickstart your Loaded Baked Potato Salad, you’ll need to prepare the star of the show – the potatoes! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked spuds:

1. Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler or a paring knife for a smoother texture.
3. Dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
4. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Cook them until they are tender but still firm, approximately 10-15 minutes.
5. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.

Cooking the Bacon

While the potatoes are cooling, it’s time to cook the bacon to crispy perfection:

1. In a skillet or frying pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until it turns golden and crispy.
2. Once done, place the cooked bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let it cool, then crumble it into small pieces.

Preparing the Dressing

The creamy and tangy dressing is what ties all the ingredients together in this Loaded Baked Potato Salad:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise, whisking until well blended.
2. Add garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper to the dressing. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the flavors.

Assembling the Salad

Now that all the elements are ready, it’s time to bring everything together:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, and diced green onions.
2. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl and mix again, ensuring all the ingredients are well distributed.
4. Sprinkle a dash of paprika on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Serving and Enjoying

Once your Loaded Baked Potato Salad is assembled, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed:

1. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
2. Garnish with additional sliced green onions and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese if desired.
3. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for optimal taste.