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Best Loaded Baked Potato Salad with Bacon & Chives

loaded baked potato salad - featured image

This creamy, crunchy, and tangy loaded baked potato salad combines crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives with tender roasted potatoes for the ultimate comfort food side dish. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes (about 45 medium), scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 lb thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: extra bacon crumbles, paprika, or sour cream for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and tender.
  3. While potatoes roast, cook bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add warm roasted potatoes to the dressing and toss gently to coat. Let cool for 10 minutes.
  6. Fold in crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and chopped chives, reserving some for garnish. Mix gently until combined.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, stir gently, transfer to a serving dish, and top with reserved bacon, cheese, and chives.

Notes

For best results, let potatoes cool before adding bacon to keep it crunchy. Shred cheese from a block for smoother melting. Make ahead up to 24 hours; add garnish just before serving. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato salad, bacon, chives, cheddar, barbecue side dish, potluck recipe, creamy potato salad