Loaded Potato Salad Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Bacon-Packed Side Dish

My Story Behind This Loaded Potato Salad Recipe

There’s something about summer that brings memories of grilled ribs, laughter in the backyard, and one bowl that always disappeared first—Grandma’s loaded potato salad. As a kid, I didn’t know the secret behind that rich, smoky flavor. But as I grew into my own kitchen, I realized it was all about building layers—creamy sour cream, crispy bacon, cheddar, and golden roasted potatoes. That’s the magic behind this loaded potato salad recipe.

Unlike the traditional mayo-heavy versions, this recipe bakes the potatoes for a deeper flavor and a slightly crisp texture. It’s not just creamy; it’s hearty and loaded (literally) with everything you’d expect on a baked potato—but chilled and tossed into a salad.

Whether it’s for a summer BBQ, potluck, or even a holiday side, this loaded potato salad recipe fits right in. I’ve even made it ahead for meal prep lunches, and it holds up beautifully. And if you’re curious about alternatives, our baked potato salad recipe has a fun twist with ranch. For a more traditional touch, check out this Amish potato salad version—it’s a family favorite on Sear Recipes.

This dish brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen—each time I prepare it, it feels like home. It’s become a go-to at our table, and I’m excited for it to find a place in your own kitchen. What makes this recipe shine? It’s comforting, adaptable, and delightfully easy to make.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients & Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Loaded Potato Salad

When it comes to making the ultimate loaded potato salad recipe, your ingredients are everything. This isn’t just any potato salad—it’s inspired by the classic loaded baked potato. Every forkful should deliver big, satisfying flavor. Here’s exactly how to build that taste, one step at a time, and what sets this version apart.

Ingredients That Build Flavor

To start, choose hearty potatoes that hold their shape—Russets or Yukon Golds work best. Here’s what you’ll need for your loaded potato salad recipe:

• 2 lbs Russet potatoes (scrubbed, skin-on for texture)
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 strips bacon (cooked crisp and chopped)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

The loaded potato salad recipe calls for baking your potatoes instead of boiling. Why? Roasted potatoes bring out natural sugars and crisp edges, giving your salad extra depth. If you’re used to mayo-based salads, this blend with sour cream will blow you away.

Looking for a twist? Our hellmanns potato salad recipe is a creamy spin for mayo lovers. Or go with our bow tie pasta salad recipes for a pasta-based crowd-pleaser.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Texture

1. Bake the Potatoes
   Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks and roast them for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and fork-tender. Let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing
   Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and your spices until smooth. Fold in the shredded cheese and half of the bacon, letting the mixture become rich and creamy.
3. Assemble the Salad
   Gently fold roasted potatoes into the dressing. Top with the rest of the bacon and green onions.
4. Chill and Serve
   Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This lets the flavors meld into a creamy, tangy, and rich salad—exactly what you want from a loaded potato salad recipe.

You can also swap regular cheddar for smoked cheese or add paprika for a spicy kick. Don’t be afraid to personalize it!

Make-Ahead Tips, Storage & Nutritional Customization

One of the best things about this loaded potato salad recipe is how well it works for meal prep. Whether you’re getting ready for a summer barbecue or just want a side dish ready in the fridge, this dish stays fresh, creamy, and full of flavor—even days later.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

You can prepare this loaded potato salad up to three days ahead—ideal for gatherings or easy midweek lunches. Once mixed, seal it tightly and keep it chilled. Bonus: it gets even more flavorful after resting overnight.

If you’re wondering how to store it properly, here’s a quick guide:

• Keep your salad fresh by sealing it in an airtight container and refrigerating it for up to five days.
• Serving temp: Best served chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours max.
• Freezing? Not recommended—dairy ingredients can separate and the texture will change.

Planning a protein-packed lunch? Serve this salad with our cottage cheese bagels for a balanced, energizing plate. If you’re prepping meals for the week, it goes great with our high-protein pasta—a smart combo that delivers taste and nutrients without compromise.

Nutritional Notes & Customization Impact

A traditional loaded potato salad recipe isn’t exactly low-fat—but it’s customizable. You can tweak it easily without losing the rich, indulgent feel:

• Looking to cut back on fat? Trade the standard mayo and sour cream for Greek yogurt or light alternatives without losing creaminess.
• Boost the protein content by folding in diced hard-boiled eggs or slices of grilled chicken.
• Dairy-free version: Use vegan sour cream and cheddar alternatives.
• Keto-friendly option: Sub cauliflower for potatoes to cut down carbs dramatically.

Each serving of this loaded potato salad recipe delivers a mix of fats, protein, and carbs—ideal as a filling side. The roasted potatoes add fiber, and using real ingredients gives you control over sodium and sugar.

For those on specific diets, don’t hesitate to personalize. That’s what makes this dish so versatile—it fits your taste and your goals.

Nutritional Notes & Customization Impact

Each serving of this loaded potato salad recipe provides around 370 calories, mostly coming from healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can easily swap the sour cream and mayonnaise for Greek yogurt without losing the creamy texture. Want to boost the protein? Add grilled chicken or chopped hard-boiled eggs to turn this into a more filling option.

What makes this recipe truly flexible is how well it adapts to different dietary needs—whether you’re following a low-carb, high-protein, or lighter eating plan, it fits right in. You get bold flavor and satisfying texture without compromising your goals.

Serving Ideas

A loaded potato salad recipe is more than a side dish—it’s a scene-stealer. Whether you’re planning a weekend grill session or prepping for a family picnic, it pairs beautifully with countless main dishes. Plus, we’ve included clear answers to the most common questions people search online.

What to Serve with Your Loaded Potato Salad

This creamy, smoky, cheesy salad pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted proteins. Serve it next to a juicy steak, pulled pork, or roasted chicken. One favorite pairing we love is our chipotle honey chicken recipe—sweet, spicy, and balanced by the coolness of the salad.

Looking for a fun brunch twist? Add a scoop of this loaded potato salad recipe next to air fryer Starbucks egg bites for a protein-packed breakfast spread.

For cookouts, it’s the perfect make-ahead dish—just bring a big bowl, a spoon, and expect it to disappear fast.

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Most Asked Questions About Loaded Potato Salad (FAQs)

Conclusion: Why This Loaded Potato Salad Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the spotlight, this loaded potato salad recipe is exactly what your table needs. It’s everything you love about a fully loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, melty cheddar, creamy sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions—folded into a hearty, flavor-packed salad.

What makes this version special isn’t just the taste, but the texture and flexibility. Baking the potatoes instead of boiling them adds richness and depth, giving every bite a golden crispness that traditional potato salads often miss. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, prepping meals for the week, or planning a family potluck, this salad fits any occasion effortlessly.

You don’t need advanced skills or fancy tools—just fresh ingredients, a baking sheet, and about 45 minutes. The real beauty is how easy it is to prep in advance. With proper storage, this dish holds its creamy texture and bold flavor for several days, making it the perfect companion to quick weekday dinners or outdoor feasts.

Want to go lighter? Try swapping in Greek yogurt. Need more protein? Toss in some grilled chicken or pair it with our high-protein pasta recipe. Even for brunch, this salad brings bold flavors without a fuss. And if you’re craving something equally comforting but a bit different, you’ll love our amish potato salad recipe.

From the roasted potatoes to the smoky bacon bits, every forkful feels familiar yet elevated. It’s warm, satisfying, and nostalgic—all the feelings I first learned in my grandmother’s kitchen. And that’s what food should be: full of heart and meant to bring people together.

Thanks for spending time in the kitchen with me. I hope this loaded potato salad recipe becomes a favorite in your home just like it is in mine. And don’t forget to explore more comforting, meal-prep-friendly recipes right here on Sear Recipes.