Loaded Baked Potato Salad
There’s something undeniably comforting about a fully loaded baked potato. The crispy, smoky bacon, the cool and creamy sour cream, the rich melted cheddar cheese, and the fresh pop of chives all come together to create a perfect bite. Now imagine transforming those classic flavors into a chilled, creamy, flavor-packed potato salad that’s ideal for sharing. That’s exactly what this Loaded Baked Potato Salad delivers — a bold, hearty side dish that combines everything you love about baked potatoes with the satisfying texture of traditional potato salad.
This recipe is the ultimate upgrade to classic potato salad. Instead of a simple mayonnaise-based mixture, this version layers in sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon crumbles, and green onions to create a rich and savory flavor profile. Tender chunks of perfectly cooked potatoes act as the base, absorbing all the creamy dressing while still holding their shape. Every spoonful is packed with texture — soft potatoes, crunchy bacon, smooth dressing, and bursts of cheesy goodness that make it completely irresistible.
Loaded Baked Potato Salad is perfect for summer barbecues, backyard cookouts, holiday gatherings, potlucks, picnics, and even weeknight dinners. It pairs beautifully with grilled burgers, barbecue chicken, ribs, steak, hot dogs, or roasted vegetables. Because it can be prepared ahead of time, it’s a stress-free option when you’re entertaining guests. In fact, it often tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to blend and intensify for a richer, more balanced taste.
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile and customizable it is. You can use russet potatoes for a fluffy, classic baked potato texture, or Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly buttery flavor and creamier consistency. Red potatoes also work well if you prefer a firmer bite that holds its shape after mixing. For extra flavor depth, add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or freshly cracked black pepper. If you love bold cheese flavor, try extra-sharp cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. You can even add cream cheese for extra richness or a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a subtle tangy kick.
Texture plays a big role in what makes this potato salad stand out. The crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing. The melted cheddar creates pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the salad. Fresh chives or sliced green onions add brightness and a mild onion flavor that balances the richness. Every ingredient works together to create a satisfying combination of creamy, smoky, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.
This loaded potato salad is also ideal for meal prep. You can boil the potatoes ahead of time, cook and crumble the bacon in advance, and mix everything together a few hours before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply give it a gentle stir before serving. If needed, add a small spoonful of sour cream or mayonnaise to refresh the creaminess before placing it on the table.
If you’re hosting a summer BBQ or bringing a dish to a family gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It stands out from traditional potato salad thanks to its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. Guests often go back for seconds, and it’s one of those dishes that disappears quickly from the serving bowl.
Loaded Baked Potato Salad isn’t just a side dish — it’s comfort food in salad form. Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with flavor, it delivers everything you love about a baked potato in every chilled bite. Once you try it, this easy and crowd-pleasing recipe will quickly become a staple at your table for every occasion.