If you’ve ever wished your baked potato could be served cold and creamy with all your favorite toppings, then this Loaded Baked Potato Salad is about to blow your mind. With chunks of tender potatoes, crisp bacon, sharp cheddar, green onions, and a creamy dressing infused with sour cream and mayo, this dish tastes just like a loaded baked potato — but in picnic-perfect form.
It’s the ultimate BBQ side dish that disappears fast, and once you try it, you’ll never look at potato salad the same way again.
🛒 Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
- Optional: chopped chives, extra bacon, or cheese for topping
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the potatoes
Place potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool completely.
2. Prepare the dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the salad
Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and gently fold to coat in the dressing. Add shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Stir until well combined.
4. Chill and serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor. Garnish with extra bacon bits, cheese, or green onions if desired.
🍽 Nutrition Info (per serving – serves 8)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on toppings and add-ins.
✅ Tips & Variations
- Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer a waxier texture.
- Add hard-boiled eggs for an extra boost of protein.
- Lighten it up: Use light sour cream and mayo or sub in Greek yogurt.
- Make it smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the dressing.
- No mayo fan? Use all sour cream with a splash of vinegar for tang.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Perfect with BBQ ribs, grilled burgers, or fried chicken
- Serve alongside baked beans and cornbread for a full Southern feast
- Great for potlucks, picnics, and tailgating
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