Print

Creamy Loaded Potato Salad with Bacon and Ranch

creamy loaded potato salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy and crunchy potato salad featuring crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and tender Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Perfect for BBQs and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, scrubbed and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Scrub and cut potatoes into roughly 1-inch chunks. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. While potatoes cook, fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces. Save a tablespoon of bacon grease if desired.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in apple cider vinegar if using. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Add warm potatoes to the dressing and toss gently to coat. Add bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, celery, and parsley. Stir gently to combine without breaking potatoes.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally, garnish with extra bacon bits and green onions.

Notes

Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for best texture. Save a tablespoon of bacon grease to toss with potatoes for extra smoky flavor. Mix gently to avoid mashing potatoes. Chill at least 1 hour for best flavor. Can substitute half mayo with Greek yogurt for lighter version. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, bacon, ranch, creamy potato salad, BBQ side dish, summer salad, loaded potato salad

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/creamy-loaded-potato-salad-with-bacon-and-ranch-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-bbqs/