Loaded Potato Salad is everything you love about a fully loaded baked potato, packed into a creamy, savory, and slightly tangy cold salad. Imagine tender chunks of potato mingling with crisp bacon, sharp cheddar, green onions, and a luscious sour cream-mayo dressing. It’s indulgent without being heavy and always vanishes first at potlucks and picnics.

This version takes the classic to a whole new level. It’s not just a side dish—it’s a scene stealer. Perfect served cold at BBQs or as a hearty meal prep option that actually feels exciting to eat. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Whether you’re adding pickled jalapeños, boiled eggs, or even chopped dill pickles, this salad adapts to your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Salad

You get layers of texture in every bite, from the creamy potatoes to the crispy bacon and the melty cheese. The combination of sour cream and mayonnaise gives it richness, but it’s balanced with the brightness of green onions and a touch of vinegar. It also holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping ahead.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes are perfect for this recipe. They hold their shape well after boiling and offer a creamy bite without turning mushy. If you prefer a slightly fluffier salad, Russets can work—just be extra gentle during mixing to keep the chunks intact.

Ingredients for the Loaded Potato Salad

The beauty of this salad is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing bold flavor and satisfying texture.

Yukon Gold Potatoes
Bacon
Cheddar Cheese
Green Onions
Sour Cream
Mayonnaise
Apple Cider Vinegar
Salt and Pepper

How To Make the Loaded Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a pot of salted cold water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork tender but not falling apart. Drain and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

While the potatoes are cooling, fry the bacon until it’s golden and crispy. Let it drain on paper towels and then crumble into bits.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gently fold the cooled potatoes into the dressing. Add the shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Fold again until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This lets the flavors meld and the salad to firm up slightly. Serve cold and garnish with extra cheese and onions if desired.

How to Store and Serve This Salad

This recipe feeds 6 to 8 people as a generous side dish. It can be made the night before and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better with time. If it thickens too much, a spoonful of sour cream or mayo can bring back the creaminess.

What to Serve With Loaded Potato Salad?

Grilled BBQ Chicken

The smokiness of BBQ chicken complements the rich tang of the salad.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Soft buns and saucy meat find the perfect cool, creamy partner.

Corn on the Cob

A fresh and sweet contrast to the salty bacon and cheese.

Hamburgers

Classic and dependable, this duo screams backyard gathering.

Baked Beans

Warm, hearty beans go hand-in-hand with the chilled potato dish.

Coleslaw

A crunchier side that still brings creamy vibes.

Fried Chicken

That golden crispiness is made for a creamy cold scoop of this salad.

Watermelon Slices

For a pop of juicy freshness, especially in summer months.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you love this hearty, flavor-packed salad, check out some of these other side dish heroes from Janet Dishes:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeños or smoked paprika? Swap cheddar for gouda?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Loaded Potato Salad is the ultimate cold side for warm days, busy weeks, and cookouts that call for something a little extra. With every creamy, crunchy, cheesy bite, it delivers big comfort and even bigger flavor. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your most requested recipe.