Print

Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Salad with Bacon and Chives

creamy loaded baked potato salad - featured image

A creamy, loaded baked potato salad with smoky bacon, fresh chives, and a tangy sour cream dressing. Perfect for potlucks and barbecues, this easy recipe turns a simple side into a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s or Duke’s preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled (about 1 cup)
  • ½ cup fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes clean, pat dry, and prick each with a fork.
  2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a rimmed baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  3. Bake for 45-55 minutes until easily pierced with a fork and skin is slightly crispy. Let cool for 10 minutes.
  4. While potatoes bake, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Once potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut into large chunks (skins on). Place in a large mixing bowl and mash halfway, leaving some chunky pieces.
  7. Pour dressing over mashed potatoes and fold gently to coat. Add crumbled bacon, chives, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Fold gently again.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Flavors meld best when chilled.

Notes

Let potatoes cool completely before adding dressing to prevent a watery salad. Cook bacon extra crispy as it will soften in the salad. Season in layers for best flavor. This salad improves overnight.

Nutrition

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