This Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Creamy potatoes are mixed with crunchy bacon, zesty ranch dressing, and a sprinkle of cheese. Yum!
Who doesn’t love bacon in their salad? It adds such a fun twist! I could eat this potato salad at every picnic and still want more. Just the perfect side dish for any meal!
It’s super easy to make—just boil the potatoes, mix everything, and chill! I love serving it with burgers or grilled chicken. Perfect for summer days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Red or Yukon gold potatoes work best for this salad as they hold their shape well after boiling. You can swap them for new potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combination gives the salad a creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you might use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You could also use a vegan mayo for a dairy-free option!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. For a healthier alternative, try turkey bacon or, for a vegetarian option, you could use smoked paprika to add a hint of smokiness.
Ranch Seasoning: While a packet of ranch mix is convenient, you can create your own by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. This allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking!
How Do I Cook Potatoes for the Perfect Texture?
Cooking the potatoes just right is crucial for a great potato salad. Start by cutting them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Place potato chunks in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll turn mushy. Once done, drain and let them cool slightly.
This method helps maintain a nice texture for your salad. Chilling the salad will also allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds red or Yukon gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad will take about 20 minutes for prep and cooking, plus at least 1 hour of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, in total, allow for about 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the potato chunks in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to flavor the potatoes. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork—this will take about 10-15 minutes. Once they are done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. Mixing the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well-blended and smooth. This will form the creamy base of your potato salad!
3. Combining Ingredients:
Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the potatoes into the mixture so they get coated evenly without breaking apart. Next, stir in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Combine them well, but be gentle to keep the potatoes intact!
4. Seasoning and Chilling:
Now it’s time to taste your salad. Add salt and pepper according to your liking. Once seasoned, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
5. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, give the potato salad a good stir. You can garnish the top with additional green onions or extra bacon bits for a fun finish. Serve it cold and enjoy every delicious bite!
Enjoy your flavorful Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad! It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a tasty side dish any day of the week!
FAQ for Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! Red potatoes and Yukon golds are great choices, but you can also use new potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different twist. Just make sure whatever you use is cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Make This Salad Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or a reduced-fat mayonnaise. You can also omit the cheese or use a low-fat version to reduce calories.
Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This potato salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare according to the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find that the salad has thickened after sitting in the fridge, you can stir in a splash of milk or more dressing to bring back the creamy texture before serving again.
