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Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe with Bacon and Cheddar

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A cozy and inviting loaded baked potato salad featuring crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a comforting side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), baked and cooled
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced (white and light green parts)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub russet potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork. Place directly on oven rack or baking sheet. Bake 45-60 minutes until skin is crisp and a fork slides easily into center. Let cool completely or refrigerate if making ahead.
  2. Cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Peel potatoes if desired and cut into roughly 1-inch cubes. Place into large mixing bowl.
  5. Add crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and sliced green onions to potatoes. Pour dressing over everything and gently fold to combine without mashing potatoes.
  6. Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top.

Notes

Do not overcook potatoes to avoid mushy texture. Baking potatoes instead of boiling keeps salad from becoming soggy. Render bacon fat slowly for crispiness. Use sharp cheddar for best flavor. Taste and adjust dressing seasoning before mixing. Chill salad adequately to let flavors meld. If salad seems dry after chilling, stir in more mayonnaise or sour cream. Serve cold or at room temperature; reheating is not recommended as it changes texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato salad, potato salad with bacon, cheddar potato salad, creamy potato salad, comfort food, BBQ side dish, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/comforting-loaded-baked-potato-salad-recipe-with-bacon-and-cheddar-easy-and-delicious/