Loaded Baked Potato Salad with Bacon & Cheese

If you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and utterly satisfying, Loaded Baked Potato Salad delivers in every bite. Imagine crispy bacon, melted cheddar, tangy sour cream, and fork-tender roasted potatoes—all the best parts of a loaded baked potato, served cold in salad form. Whether you’re prepping for a potluck or just want to elevate your weekly meal plan, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level. It’s bold, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make—even for beginner home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This version of Loaded Baked Potato Salad takes all your favorite toppings and blends them into one unforgettable dish. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:

• Big Flavors: Roasted russet potatoes, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar come together in every bite.
• Foolproof Method: Roasting the potatoes instead of boiling adds depth and texture.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for BBQs, holidays, or weekday meals.
• Flexible & Forgiving: Swap in Greek yogurt, adjust seasonings, or prep ahead—it’s hard to mess up!

History & Fun Facts About Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Let’s explore the roots and rise of this flavorful twist on a classic:

• Loaded potato salad was born from the all-American love for baked potatoes—complete with bacon, cheese, and sour cream.
• It gained traction in the Midwest and Southern states, especially during grilling season.
• Unlike traditional potato salad, this version mimics everything you’d top on a hot baked potato—only chilled and mixed.
• Today, it’s often a staple on picnic tables, at BBQ joints, and in home kitchens across the country.

Key Ingredients in Loaded Baked Potato Salad

These ingredients create the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and satisfaction:

• Russet Potatoes – Roasted for rich, earthy flavor and a fluffy interior.
• Olive Oil & Kosher Salt – Used for seasoning and roasting the potatoes to perfection.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds brightness and helps balance the richness of the salad.
• Mayonnaise & Sour Cream – The creamy base that brings everything together.
• Bacon – Cooked until crispy, then crumbled for salty crunch in every forkful.
• Green Onions – Provide a fresh bite and mild onion flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts slightly into the warm potatoes, making the salad irresistibly cheesy.
• Salt & Pepper – For seasoning every layer to perfection.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Salad (Step-by-Step)

Roast the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place cleaned russet potatoes on a baking sheet, pierce each a few times with a fork, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt. Roast for 50–60 minutes until fork-tender. Cool slightly.

Peel and Cube: Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins (they should slip right off), and cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. It’s okay if they crumble a bit. Transfer to a large bowl.

Season While Warm: Sprinkle warm potatoes with apple cider vinegar. Let them rest and cool for 15–30 minutes to soak in the tangy flavor.

Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes rest, cook the bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into bite-size pieces.

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), salt, and black pepper.

Assemble the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the cooled potatoes. Add bacon, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together.

Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors develop. Give it a final stir before serving.

Loaded Baked Potato Salad Tips and Twists

Top Tips:

• Roast, don’t boil, the potatoes for more flavor.
• Season the potatoes while they’re still warm for maximum absorption.
• Don’t skip the apple cider vinegar—it brightens up the entire dish.
• For more tang, swap some mayo with Greek yogurt.
• Chill for at least 3 hours so flavors can fully meld.

Fun Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• BBQ-Style: Mix in a spoonful of BBQ sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Add roasted red peppers or chopped celery for crunch.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold. If you prefer it warm, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time.
• Make-Ahead: You can make the full salad the night before. For best texture, wait to add bacon and cheese until just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is ultra-satisfying, but here are some perfect pairings:

• With BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: The creamy texture balances smoky meats.
• Next to Grilled Chicken Wraps: Try it with our Grilled Chicken Wraps for a fresh, hearty lunch.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Serve with Roasted Broccoli and Carrots for a colorful contrast.
• With a Cool Drink: Balance the richness with our Refreshing Peach Lemonade.
• Finish with a Sweet Treat: Follow up with Best Carrot Cake Cookies for a comforting end to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Yes, peeling helps with the creamy texture, but feel free to leave the skins on if you prefer more texture.

2. Can I use red or gold potatoes instead?
You can, but russets provide the fluffiest interior and soak up dressing better.

3. What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
White wine vinegar or lemon juice works in a pinch.

4. Is this gluten-free?
Yes—just ensure your bacon and condiments are certified gluten-free.

5. Can I add eggs?
Absolutely! Chopped hard-boiled eggs are a delicious addition.

Enjoy Your Loaded Baked Potato Salad

This Loaded Baked Potato Salad is everything you want in a comfort dish—creamy, cheesy, bacon-loaded goodness with a touch of tang. It’s simple enough for beginners, delicious enough for any gathering, and customizable for any craving. Once you try it roasted-style, you may never go back to boiling potatoes again. Dive in and make it your own!

Explore More Recipes

Hungry for more kitchen inspiration? Try these handpicked favorites from Abby’s Recipes:

• Love cheesy comfort food? You’ll adore our Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
• Craving something sweet but easy? Whip up our Quick Pecan Pie Cookies.
• Need a quick lunch idea? This Simple Avocado Toast with Egg is the perfect option.
• Want a cozy, effortless dinner? Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice.