Potato salad is a classic for a reason—creamy, comforting, and endlessly versatile. But when you load it up with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, fresh chives, and tangy pickles, you’ve got a show-stopping side dish that steals the spotlight at any barbecue or family gathering.
Making potato salad from scratch isn’t complicated, but nailing the right balance of creaminess and texture takes a little love and the right ingredients. This recipe delivers on both, with tender potatoes tossed in a rich, flavorful dressing that brings all the toppings together in harmony.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Salad:
Perfectly Tender Potatoes:
Boiled just right—not mushy—so they hold their shape but soak up all the flavors.
Creamy, Tangy Dressing:
A mix of mayo, sour cream, and mustard with a splash of pickle juice gives this salad its signature zing.
Loaded with Flavor:
Crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives add texture and a savory punch in every bite.
Recipe: Loaded Potato Salad
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Ingredients:
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3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
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6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup sour cream
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2 tbsp yellow mustard
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2 tbsp pickle juice
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1/2 cup diced dill pickles
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1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until just tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, and pickle juice until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the warm potatoes to the dressing and gently toss to coat. Fold in bacon, cheddar, eggs, pickles, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Salad Prep Tip:
For perfectly even potato cubes and easy chopping of toppings, a mandoline slicer can speed up prep and give you uniform slices for that beautiful, consistent salad texture.